I am writing in response to recent claims suggesting that undocumented immigrants “do not pay taxes.” This is a common misconception. In fact, undocumented immigrants contribute significantly to our federal, state and local tax base. Many pay payroll taxes using Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers or borrowed Social Security numbers. They also pay sales taxes on everyday purchases and property taxes, either directly as homeowners or indirectly through rent. According to the nonpartisan Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, undocumented immigrants pay billions of dollars every year in state and local taxes.
Some argue that undocumented immigrants avoid paying payroll taxes because some work for cash. While this does occur, it is far from the whole story. Millions work regular jobs where taxes are withheld just like anyone else. And even those paid in cash still pay sales, gas and property taxes through rent. Importantly, many natural-born American citizens also work for cash in fields like construction, child care, lawn care, food service and home repair. Yet we do not question their value or accuse them of “not contributing.” Singling out undocumented immigrants for criticism, while ignoring the same practice among citizens, reflects bias rather than fact.
Others ask how children of undocumented immigrants can attend public schools if their parents do not pay taxes. Public education is funded by local property taxes, state income and sales taxes and federal dollars. Undocumented immigrants contribute to all those revenue streams…