September 24th, 2012

What is Your Fair Share?                                                           
In our politically correct culture, the term “fair share” is now often used.  It seems to mean different things at different times.  However, it always seems to mean, “You should pay more” of your personal income to the government so they can distribute it to the people that really deserve it.

We reject that thinking.
We believe that your “fair share” is no more than the law demands.

Judge Learned Hand (pictured above) served on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit from 1924 to 1951.  He is the most quoted judge in the history of our country.  Perhaps his most famous quote is this: 

“Over and over again the Courts have said that there is nothing sinister in so arranging affairs as to keep taxes as low as possible.  Everyone does it, rich and poor alike and all do right, for nobody owes any public duty to pay more than the law demands” (Gregory v. Helvering 69 F. 2nd 809).

This truth has been affirmed time and time again by our courts since that ruling was given in 1935.

We believe in helping you comply with the law.  To comply literally means “to fulfill, or accomplish”.  The Eldridge Group will ensure that you fulfill the demands that the government makes upon you to report your business activity and pay the required taxes, whatever that amount may be. We believe in helping you to “arrange your affairs” so that you pay the lowest possible tax possible.  Through proper planning and good compliance accounting, we can accomplish that goal.

There is a big difference between avoiding taxes and evading taxes.  Even the IRS recognizes that difference. 

“The distinction between avoidance and evasion is fine, yet definite. One who avoids tax does not conceal or misrepresent, but shapes and preplans events to reduce or eliminate tax liability, then reports the transactions. Evasion on the other hand, involves deceit, subterfuge, camouflage, concealment, some attempt to color or obscure events, or making things seem other than they are.” Internal Revenue Manual Section 913(1).

We believe and practice “avoidance” taxation.  We use every tool possible to lower taxes.  We believe that you and you alone know how to spend your money wisely.

We encourage you to schedule an appointment so that we can further explain what tools are available.

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