Taxes

With all of the recent political discussions regarding taxation, I thought it would be appropriate to share my son’s recent first experience with sales tax. Christopher had been saving his money for over half a year to buy a certain toy, and was very excited to finally go to Radio Shack to make his big purchase. After buying some batteries myself, I stood at the register and chatted with the friendly sales clerk. Christopher came up with his toy, put it on the counter, and began counting out the money from his little Ziploc bag.

“That’ll be $21.65, buddy,” said the sales clerk.

“What?! Hold on, the sign said $19.99!” said Christopher, confused. Then he continued, the urgency and slight anger apparent in his voice: “Do you want me to go back and check, because I know that it was only $19.99. I can bring the sign up here!”

“There’s a sales tax, buddy, and that adds a little bit of extra money onto the cost of the item,” replied the sales clerk, trying to remain serious and hide the smile on his face.

“What?! But the sign said $19.99!” replied Christopher, in a slightly louder and higher voice this time.

Luckily for him, Christopher had extra money and was able to pay the sales tax. But I am not kidding when I say that he handed over that extra money with a tear in his eye, clearly jaded by the whole experience.

I know how you feel, honey. 🙂