We had an interesting dilemma about paying cash, or paying a regular invoice. Rachel and I instantly agreed with each other without even discussing it. However perhaps not everyone might agree?
At the Quirky Museum this week we have had another tradesman in. As usual I like to make sure our tradesmen are all suitably nourished with the offer of Doug Blend coffee (providing a motivational caffeine kick) and the supply of a high energy Belgian bun from the village bakery.
When the work was completed, he asked if we would like to pay cash, or if we particularly wanted him to, he could invoice us. The implication was, of course, whether he put the transaction through his books and therefore charge us more to cover his tax, or to pay cash and have a little discount as a cash-in-hand transaction.
So such a dilemma – but only for a second.
“Send me an invoice as usual”
”Oh” followed by a slightly awkward pause “oh, okay” he said. I gave him one of my “looks” and there was no need to say anything else at all.
So last night the invoice arrived by email. Although it was clearly having to go through his books, it was a little less than I had expected. Even better was that he hadn’t charged me for a couple of extra little jobs I asked him to do while he was with us.
So it turned out alright in the end. Perhaps the Belgian bun I bought for him from the village baker did the trick!
As you might expect, I’m a firm believer that everyone needs to pay their taxes. In fact, the government needs to collect more tax revenue to fund what needs to be funded in this country.
Personally I’d welcome a cash-free economy. I understand the arguments against a cash-less society, but too much money still resides in the hidden economy. The more that is reduced the better.
Paying taxes is (or should be) a great leveller, and forms part of a citizen’s social contract with the State.
Finally, of course, we should not be acting in a a way that might tempt others to sin.
I knew you’d agree Anthony and you’ve made an excellent comment there, as always!