An old adage says, "There's only two things you have to do in life – pay taxes and die."
Well, I know a few people that don't heed that saying.
Do you know anyone who sells their wares or services for cash only with no receipts? How many report this income on tax returns? I expect very few. Cash under the table has been going on for a very long time and continueS with no end in sight.
I'm guilty of doing this type of transaction with vendors and so-called businesses and probably many of you are as well.
Any way to make a few extra bucks on the side to make ends meet and screw the government at the same time is a bonus, so they say!
But, it's ourselves we are screwing in the long run. With fewer tax dollars in the provincial economy, there will be less money for services and infrastructure.
Everyone should pay their fair share of taxes no matter what their situation.
Don't you worry, these tax evaders know all the loopholes to avoid paying. What we have to do is ask for an official receipt and if they can't provide one, then they're the ones contributing to this problem.
I'm trying to do my best. I hope you will too.
Jeff Holmes,
Shearstown
