If you believe taxation is the price we pay for civilization and the social and civil institutions it supports, as it was suggested back in 1852 by a committee appointed by Vermont Gov. Charles K. Williams, then Happy Tax Day to you!

If on the other hand, you view taxes as an involuntary extraction from those engaged in economic production to those who control coercive power producing no reciprocal benefit, then read no further.

With today being Tax Day, we’ve decided here at SWC to flip the script on the dread associated with filing tax returns. Instead of replaying vinyl of The Beatles’ “Taxman,” quoting biblical references to the tax collectors in the temple, or reflecting on tea in Boston Harbor, we’ve chosen to step to the tune of the happy dance.

Now you’re probably thinking, “Of course CPAs and tax planning firms celebrate Tax Day. That’s how they make bank!” But if you take a deeper dive, beyond the oft-onerous task of tax preparation and the pain of paying those taxes and occasional penalties, there’s plenty to celebrate.

And so, in this post we shine the spotlight on all the positive aspects associated with paying taxes and filing tax returns.

Ka-Ching! Receiving a Tax Refund

Many momentous occasions bring joy to people’s lives — graduations, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and retirements among them. After preparing tax returns for tens of thousands of clients, the team here at SWC can add to that list the joy of receiving an annual tax refund, especially when it exceeds our client’s expectations.

In 2020, nearly 170 million people filed tax returns, and about 74 percent of them received a refund, which accounts for approximately 126 million refunds! The average refund: $2,549. Even though you earned it, it feels like easy money, free money, and it is certainly a cause for celebration.

Owing Taxes: A Celebration of Financial Success

Owing taxes at year’s end, especially when you already paid a hefty sum over the course of the year, can Continue reading… Continue reading… Continue reading…