The Tax Man Cometh…
Isn't it wonderful that Spring is here? The world comes alive with color, and the air is filled with the sweet scent of blossoming flowers. Along with this welcomed change in season comes an unexpected topic in an Amish newsletter: tomorrow's tax day and paying taxes. I know it might seem out of place amidst the blooming of nature, but it's a subject that even our Amish friends participate in. So, let's embark on a fascinating journey through Amish taxation, a world where simplicity and civic duty intertwine.
You may have heard many different things about the Amish and taxes. So many misconceptions are floating around that it's hard to separate fact from fiction. But don't worry—together, we'll clear up the confusion.
Like you and me, the Amish dutifully file Federal and State Income Tax returns yearly on all their income. The tax deadline doesn't discriminate—it affects everyone, whether you're wearing plain Amish clothing or a fancy city suit.
Let's also talk about property taxes that the Amish pay at the same rate as all property owners. Imagine the Amish children, their faces aglow with curiosity as they learn in their small one-room schoolhouses. These schoolhouses are void of any government funding, contrasting our modern education system. However, even though these young Amish minds aren't part of the public school system, the Amish still contribute to public schools by paying the same school levies on their property tax bills. This puts them in the position of paying into the educational system without taking anything out. Isn't that something?
And then there are all State and Local Sales Taxes? They affect the Amish just like they do the rest of us. They pay their share every time they buy something, whether feed for their livestock or a yard of fabric. They're just as much a part of the marketplace as anyone else, even though their transactions might seem a little different.
Capital Gains Taxes don't give the Amish a break, either. When Amish farmers sell equipment, property, or the fruits of their hard labor, they must also pay taxes. It's just how things go, no matter who you are or where you come from.
There is one exception. The Amish, in line with their beliefs, don't participate in Social Security. Instead of relying on the government, they look out for each other. When someone in their community falls ill, everyone comes together to help. This is their form of social security—a community that cares for its own. It's a beautiful testament to their strong sense of unity and compassion.
They don't draw from the Social Security system. They aren't just along for the ride. Their contribution may not be loud, but it's there in the form of a community that cares for its elderly and disabled. They choose not to claim government benefits, preferring to uphold their commitment to their community and faith. It's a sacrifice they're willing to make, and it's quite admirable.
So remember, the next time you see an Amish farmer at the market or you support an Amish family by purchasing their products, they're not just selling you goods. They're tax-paying contributors to the community. Their hands, hardened by work, create and cultivate. Their hearts beat in time with the rhythm of hard work and responsibility. They're an integral part of our society, and their contributions are multi-faceted and significant.
In addition to making baskets and taking care of their taxes this week, the Amish families who craft the items available on the AmishBaskets.com website have been busy with a few other activities this week:
The Mast Family
Near the Mast family's clothesline, their bluebird house witnessed a magical event this week. Rosa discovered a delicate bluebird egg nestled inside. Four more eggs appeared over the next few days, each a tiny treasure. Mama bluebird has settled onto the eggs. She knows that five little beaks will soon pierce the shells, hungry for life. Meanwhile, a chickadee family has commandeered their other bluebird house near the fence around their berry patch this year.
The Yoder Family
The Yoder family's eldest son ventured into the woods on Wednesday. His eyes caught sight of something unusual—a hollow tree with a snake's head peeking out. Curiosity piqued, he approached cautiously. To his surprise, it was a black snake measuring about five feet long. But what truly astonished him was the discovery within the snake's belly: a collection of banty eggs. He realized that this snake had raided their chicken coop, explaining the mysterious disappearance of an entire nest of eggs.
The Gingerich Family
As the school year draws to a close in the Gingerich family's district, the scholars eagerly anticipate the remaining days. Friday was a special occasion: pet day. Children arrived with an array of furry and feathered companions. Dogs wagged their tails, cats blinked lazily, and a mischievous goat nibbled at the hem of a scholar's dress. Even a sheep, its woolly coat freshly shorn, made an appearance. Laughter echoed through the schoolyard as the animals mingled, creating memories that would linger long after summer arrived.
"God never said the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worthwhile."
— Amish Wisdom
