The saying goes that apart from death, the other sure thing is taxes. You will die one day — that’s a sure bet. And as long as you live, you will pay taxes. That's another sure bet. But the matter here is, which taxes?
First, let me confess something: I'm overtaxed. The government is increasing taxes every day, and bringing in new taxes that never used to be. Almost everything is taxed. I'm also not too sure the government spends our taxes efficiently, but that's another matter. I leave it to the right people; just understand this article isn't about praising the government.
As a virtual assistant, should you consider yourself really fully employed, semi-employed or unemployed? Are you in the same category as regular workers? Do you owe your country anything?
Some online workers reason that whatever they make online is not worth sharing with the same government that has failed to get them good jobs in the first place. They say online work isn’t real work. They resorted to it because they ran out of better options. And many do have a point.
Like any other individuals engaged in economic activities, full-time virtual assistants should pay taxes for several vital reasons. As we’ll discover, you still owe your country much, even if you feel it owes you more.
Here are five motivating reasons you should pay taxes as a virtual
assistant:
1.
Legal Obligation
Taxation is a legal obligation the government imposes on individuals and businesses to fund public services and infrastructure. Virtual assistants, whether working full-time or part-time, are considered self-employed or small business owners and are subject to tax laws.
2.
Contribution to Public Services
Taxes play a crucial role in funding public services such as education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, and social welfare programs. By paying taxes, virtual assistants contribute to society's overall well-being and help maintain and improve public services that benefit everyone.
3.
Supporting Government Functions
Taxes are the primary source of revenue for governments, and
they fund various functions, including national defense, law enforcement, and
public administration. By paying taxes, virtual assistants contribute to the
smooth functioning of government activities that ensure a stable and secure
environment for economic activities.
You may be working from home, but remember you are secure in
your home because the government agencies provide security in that area.
4.
Fair Distribution of Resources
Taxation helps achieve a fair distribution of resources
within society. It is a way to redistribute wealth and ensure that those with the financial means contribute their fair share. This principle helps
address income inequality and promotes a more equitable distribution of
resources.
5.
Access to Social Benefits
Paying taxes also entitles individuals to certain social
benefits and protections. This may include access to healthcare services,
unemployment benefits, and retirement benefits. By fulfilling their tax
obligations, virtual assistants gain eligibility for these social benefits,
enhancing their overall well-being and financial security.
Parting Shot
Virtual assistants, like other
individuals engaged in economic activities, should adhere to tax regulations to
contribute to the collective welfare and ensure a fair and sustainable economic
system.
At the same time, governments should wisely spend our money. Indeed, the best motivation to pay taxes comes when the government makes good use of our taxes.
Nobody is eager to pay taxes in an environment infested with corruption.