It dawned upon me that I haven't discussed a side benefit of DIY activities and self-sufficiency . . . you can legally beat taxes.  I am not saying don't pay taxes you are obligated to pay-- just don't incur more.  This is important because taxes will be heading higher.

Rather than work more overtime or make more sales, both of which result in more taxes . . . invest your additional time in things that provide non-taxable benefits to you.  Remember every dollar your don't spend saves you in taxes.

Let's examine the tax question for a moment-- here's what you face:

• Federal income taxes
• State income taxes
• Municipal income taxes
• Property taxes
• Sales taxes
• Licenses and fees

By my estimation every dollar I spend costs me two dollars because of all the taxes involved.  Therefore, anything I do for myself and the family saves more than might appear to be saved at first when the costs get factored in.

Yes, DIY and self-sufficiency projects usually involve sales taxes on the materials and one-time investments, but even some of these can be offset.

So what are some non-taxable activities?

• Vegetable garden (Some one-time costs and taxes, but seed saving or swapping offsets)
• Fishing (Some one-time costs and taxes-- some recurring like a license)
• Hunting (Some one-time costs and taxes-- some recurring like a license)
• Raise livestock (Can be totally self-sustaining-- you start with chickens for eggs and meat)
• Any DIY project (Taxes on materials, not outputs)
• Home or asset improvements (Again, taxes on materials, not outputs)
• Start a business (Taxes--yes,  But they can be controlled with legitimate, offsetting expenses)
• Freecycling (Free is good)
• Craig's List (Again, free is good)

Other benefits of this approach include:

• Healthy
• Outdoors activities
• Personal pride and satisfaction

Think about keeping more of your money in your wallet . . . and less in the tax man's hands.

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