The immigration debate often centres on contentious issues like legality and borders, but one crucial aspect frequently overlooked is the significant financial contribution made by undocumented immigrants to the United States government. Each year, these individuals pay billions in federal taxes, a fact that challenges prevailing stereotypes and highlights their role in the economy.
The Motivation Behind Paying Taxes
Many undocumented immigrants choose to file their taxes for a variety of reasons. According to the National Immigration Law Center, demonstrating compliance with federal tax laws is paramount. By paying taxes, they can showcase “good moral character,” which could be beneficial should they ever have the chance to legalise their status. Furthermore, tax records can serve as vital documentation of work history and presence in the US, potentially paving the way for future legal immigration opportunities if reforms are enacted.
These motivations reflect a desire to integrate and contribute to society, despite the precariousness of their status.
Navigating Taxation Without Social Security Numbers
One common misconception is that undocumented immigrants can only pay taxes using stolen Social Security numbers. In reality, millions contribute without having such numbers at all. Instead, they utilise an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a provision that allows non-citizens to fulfil their tax obligations. The Bipartisan Policy Center highlights that a substantial majority of tax returns filed with ITINs are submitted by undocumented immigrants, although some lawfully residing noncitizens also use this avenue.
In 2019, the IRS reported over 2.5 million tax returns filed using ITINs, which accounted for nearly $6 billion in federal revenue. Additionally, undocumented workers contribute significantly to Social Security through payroll deductions. A 2010 estimate from the Social Security Administration indicated that these workers contributed approximately $12 billion to the fund.
Advocacy and Awareness on Social Media
In recent years, social media has become a powerful platform for raising awareness about the contributions of undocumented immigrants, particularly during tax season. Advocates and organisations have utilised platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok to highlight the paradox of undocumented immigrants funding programmes they are excluded from accessing.
Belén Sisa, a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient, went viral in 2017 when she shared her experience of paying taxes. Her poignant message asked, “Wanna tell me again how I should be deported, contribute nothing and only leech off this country while the 1% wealthiest people in this country steal from you every day?” Her story encapsulated the frustration many feel regarding misconceptions about undocumented immigrants.
Jose Antonio Vargas, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and prominent activist, also uses his platform to shed light on this issue. While finalising his own taxes in 2019, he tweeted, “Yes, undocumented immigrants are helping fund the very systems that detain and deport us.” His words resonate with the experiences of many, illustrating the contradictions within the immigration narrative.
Why it Matters
Understanding the financial contributions of undocumented immigrants is crucial in reframing the broader immigration discussion. By recognising that these individuals are not only integral to the workforce but also significant contributors to federal revenue, society can begin to dismantle harmful stereotypes and foster a more nuanced conversation about immigration policy. Their commitment to fulfilling tax obligations, despite the challenges they face, underscores a desire to belong and contribute to the fabric of American society. As debates continue, acknowledging these contributions may be key to advocating for more inclusive and just immigration reforms.
