Dear Mr. Romney:
I am 42 years old and a single mom. I pay no federal income tax as Head of Household with a child tax credit and earned income credit. I make $14 an hour. I work 40 hours a week and attend classes (currently 10 credit hours) at the local university. Please tell me how much tax you feel I should fairly pay. Also, tell me what luxury I should cut from my personal budget to pay the tax.
WAGES FOR 1 MONTH………………………… $2240
Health insurance for me and my son…….. -130
Dental insurance for me and my son …… -30
FICA SS payments ….…………………………….. -85
FICA Medicaid……………………………………… -30
Employee savings plan………………………… -23
GROSS TAKE HOME MONTHLY…………………….……… $1942
MONTHLY EXPENDITURES:
Mortgage payment……………………......…………………….626
Water and electricity…….....….......…around (it varies) 125
Car insurance ……………………………...................……....31
Fire insurance on home………………………….……………….26
Cellphone……………………………………………..……….………66
Internet connection w/landline phone (I work at home)..68
Gas for car……………………………………………………….…….80
Life insurance for me…………………………………………….. 10
Life insurance for my son………………………………………….6 Allowance for my son………………………………………………20
Car repairs and maintenance (Honda Civic, 1996)…….…100
Groceries ( $3/meal, 3 meals a day x 2 people)………min 540
Medical bills ( immunosuppressant therapy bimonthly)…min 50
Entertainment (online video game site)………………………….6
Flea treatment and heartworm meds for 2 rescued dogs……3
Clothing budget, son ( I don’t need new clothes)…….….…20
Cc payment (I had to get a new heat pump). …..Whatever is left. Looks like this month about $130. Hope those tires last a few more months. Oh wait, I probably need to stash a few bucks away for Christmas and my son’s birthday approaching.
Oddly, Mr. Romney, I do not feel like a victim…I feel proud that I’m working, raising my boy, and providing for both of our needs. I’m hopeful someday I’ll be in a better place financially. Any time I can, I am glad to help others when I have something to give. I am so grateful for all of that which I have – a mind, a soul, and love in my heart. To be able to work, provide, laugh, and see all the beauty in the world. I am content I am doing the right thing, even if you feel I’m a lazy and calculating freeloader. I must admit I feel your choices in life have caused pain and suffering and the crushing of dreams to many, all so you could line your pockets. I guess we will just have to agree to disagree. But don't call me a victim when I actually think that I understand what is really important better than you do.
