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Why Taxes Are Good for You

Because you're a tax professional, you already appreciate the fact that every working (and some instances, nonworking) citizen is required to pay taxes. You appreciate it because it keeps you in business and provides you with the money from which you get to pay your own fair share. And as a tax professional you've probably heard every tax joke in the book. You've also probably listened to countless individuals complain about the IRS and all that IT requires from them and their paychecks. So what do you say when you're at that barbeque in early April and guests begin taking their pot shots at the good ole U.S. of A. and its money-grubbing tax system? While we don't suggest you try to take a stand against an angry mob, we do want to remind you of all the reasons why, like fiber and vitamins, paying taxes is good for you. And when you get the chance, or feel so inclined, you can share one or two of them with other taxpayers.

Taxes provide the following:

Safety

If you've ever had a police officer come to your aide, you appreciate local law enforcement. Or perhaps you've heard of all the good they do, putting their lives at risk in order to protect citizens. From the local police force to those who fight terrorism, our tax dollars enable us to enjoy the protection, locally and globally, of these valuable services.

Education

Whether you feel too much or too little of our taxes goes towards public education, the truth is that many of us and our children have benefited or continue to benefit from government-sponsored schooling. And when you break it down you realize that education contributes to a reduction in poverty which results in a reduction of crime.

Public streets

Every summer I'd guess that we all complain about road construction. But imagine if each of us was responsible for paving our own streets and any of those roads we frequent. Not only would there be greater inconsistencies in the quality of these roads, but many of them may not even exist to help us travel where we desire. And all these public streets are paid for with our tax dollars.

Revenue from government contracts

The government may taketh away, but it also giveth, and quite frequently. The revenue made from government contracts, which is quite significant, strengthens our economy.

Legal support for small businesses

And last, but certainly not least, is how taxes support small businesses. The framework of our government enables small businesses to enjoy a level playing field. It also supports small business loans and many of the training programs that create qualified workers who help small businesses succeed.

We couldn't possibly cover everything our taxes pay for in this short article, but when it comes right down to it, you and I and all those who might complain about taxes, are paying for goods and services from which we benefit. Unless the government is magic, with a few billion dollars up its sleeve, there would be no way to pay for these services unless the citizens who enjoy them split the bill. While you may not agree with where your taxes go, this great nation you sponsor gives you the right to voice your disapproval. This great nation you sponsor also allows you to participate in the political system that decides where tax payer money goes. So instead of complaining about all the taxes we pay, we should consider whether or not they pay for what we think is important and then insert ourselves into the political process in order to make a change, the good ole American way.