While they do not have the same rights as citizens or legal residents, many pay income, sales, and other local taxes.
How much do they pay exactly?
It is difficult to provide an exact figure because undocumented immigrants often work in the informal economy and may not report all their income. However, several studies have estimated that undocumented immigrants pay billions of dollars in taxes each year.
A recent study estimated that undocumented immigrants paid nearly $100 billion in taxes in 2022. This figure demonstrates the significant fiscal contribution of this population, despite their legal status.
Why do they pay taxes if they do not have the same rights?
Legal obligation: Like anyone who works in the United States and earns income, undocumented immigrants are required to pay taxes on that income.
Avoiding problems: Many undocumented immigrants pay taxes to avoid issues with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and to qualify for benefits such as refunds.
Integration into the economy: Paying taxes is a way to integrate into the country’s economy and contribute to the general welfare.
What types of taxes do they pay?
Undocumented immigrants pay a variety of taxes, including:
Income tax: Like citizens, undocumented immigrants must report their income and pay taxes on it.
Consumption taxes: They pay taxes on purchases of goods and services, such as sales tax.
Property tax: If they rent or own property, they may pay property taxes.
Payroll taxes: If they work in formal jobs, they pay payroll taxes, such as Social Security and Medicare.
Why is this information important?
Understanding the tax contributions of undocumented immigrants is crucial for several reasons:
Immigration reform debate: This information can be used to argue for fairer and more humane immigration reform.
Fiscal policy: Governments can use this data to assess the impact of fiscal policies on different population groups.
Public awareness: It helps raise awareness about the reality of undocumented immigrants’ lives and their contributions to society.
In summary, undocumented immigrants in the United States pay a significant amount in taxes, despite not having the same rights as citizens. This information is important for understanding the economic and social impact of this population.
Image: ElPais
