Yes, they do pay taxes. The government doesn't just put that money in a coffee can. They earn interest on it while they have it. You also have to realize that anyone that gets most or all of it back are usually under the poverty level, but isn't always the case. A case in point is my co-worker. He has a traditional family that religious organizations like to espouse. His wages aren't poverty level by any means, but his wife stays home with their four kids. Because of their single income and deductions on dependents, they basically get every penny back at the end of the year. Under your statement, they shouldn't be allowed to vote. But as I said, even if some one gets their income taxes back, they still pay taxes on everything they purchase.kkolodsick wrote:
Well then moron, they don't pay taxes do they? Just because it is taken from your check doesn't mean you are paying it. I agree a church proper shouldn't lobby but do you know about the Christian groups lobbying? Are they tax exempt? If so I agree with you but I don't know the answer to that one.Agent_Dung_Bomb wrote:
People with low incomes still pay taxes, even if they get most or all of it back. Also, they must still pay taxes on purchases. Any for profit organization must pay income taxes and taxes on purchases, unless the item is for resale, at which point taxes are collected. As a not for profit organization a church doesn't have to pay taxes on gifts, donations, or any income they receive. They also have tax exempt status on all purchases. As such, they are not allowed to be directly involved in politics. They can make their stance known on issues, and then their members can vote for candidates that have the same beliefs, but the church may not be directly involved in a candidate's campaign, fund raising, or anything of that nature.kkolodsick wrote:
And their tax status has what to do with it? Lower income people pay no taxes either should they be allowed to vote? Blue Cross is a healt care insurance company that pays not taxes and they lobby, is that ok?
And yes church organizations can lobby. However, they may not use church property, income, or tax exempt status as part of their lobbying. In other words, you as a religious person may donate money to a politcal campaign, but your church may not take money given to it by its members and donate it directly to a political candidate or campaign. See, what you have to realize is that as tax paying citizens you may gather together under whatever cause you like, because what you do is not directly a function of the church, and any monies you may give are not tax deductible. A church as a recognized religion, not for profit, tax excempt organization cannot do so.