Do the Amish People Pay Taxes?

The Amish are often seen as a people set apart from the modern world, living simple lives without electricity, cars, or technology. Because of this, one of the most common questions people ask is: Do the Amish pay taxes? The short answer is yes—but with a few exceptions that are rooted in their religious beliefs and legal accommodations.

The Amish way of life is built on separation from modern conveniences, but not from civic duty. While they avoid government programs like Social Security, they still recognize the importance of contributing financially to the society around them. This participation ensures they remain lawful residents while maintaining their religious identity.

Federal Income Tax

Amish people do pay federal income tax, just like any other U.S. citizen. Whether they earn money from farming, woodworking, construction, or other trades, their income is reported, and they are taxed accordingly. The Amish community, despite being separate in lifestyle, still falls under federal tax law.

In fact, many Amish-run businesses are highly successful, ranging from furniture companies to bulk food suppliers. These operations often generate substantial revenue, and the federal income tax paid on these earnings plays a part in funding the broader U.S. government, just like any other enterprise.

State and Local Taxes

Amish families also pay state and local taxes, including property tax on their land and school tax—even though they typically send their children to private Amish schools rather than public schools. This demonstrates their commitment to being responsible citizens, even when they don’t directly benefit from public services.

This practice reflects the Amish principle of fairness: they use few government services but still contribute to the local economy. For instance, their property taxes help fund public infrastructure like roads and emergency services, which they do use, even if indirectly.

Sales Tax

Whenever Amish people purchase goods in states with a sales tax, they also pay that tax. Like anyone else, if they buy groceries, tools, or clothing outside their community, the same percentage applies at checkout.

Since Amish households are typically large, and they buy bulk supplies for both home and farming, their contribution to sales tax is significant. Even though they make or grow much of what they need, they still rely on external stores for items like fabric, canning supplies, and farming equipment.

The Major Exception: Social Security and Medicare

The biggest difference lies in Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA). Amish doctrine teaches that they must care for their own community members, especially the elderly and infirm, without relying on government programs.

Because of this belief, Amish individuals who are self-employed or employed by other Amish-owned businesses are exempt from paying Social Security and Medicare taxes, provided they have filed IRS Form 4029, which waives both benefits and obligations.

This exemption is a cornerstone of Amish self-reliance. It is not taken lightly; the community takes full responsibility for health care costs and elderly care. That means if an Amish man falls ill, the church helps cover his expenses through community funds, eliminating any reliance on federal assistance.

Why This Exemption Exists

The exemption is not about “dodging taxes” but about respecting religious freedom. Since the Amish take responsibility for their own medical care, retirement, and disability support, the government recognizes that they do not make use of these federal programs. Instead, they rely on mutual aid within the church community.

This arrangement has been in place since the 1960s and is legally protected. It demonstrates how the U.S. legal system balances religious conviction with civic responsibility. The Amish remain tax-paying citizens in most respects, but their separation from Social Security reflects a different philosophy about family and community responsibility.

Final Thoughts

So, do the Amish pay taxes? Yes, absolutely. They pay income tax, property tax, school tax, and sales tax. The only exception is Social Security and Medicare, which they forgo in favor of caring for one another within their community.

This balance allows them to honor their religious convictions while still contributing their fair share to the broader society in which they live. It is a model that demonstrates how tradition and modern governance can coexist with mutual respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the Amish get Social Security checks?
No. Amish who file for exemption with the IRS cannot receive Social Security benefits. They rely entirely on community support for retirement and healthcare.

Do the Amish pay school taxes even though they don’t use public schools?
Yes. Amish families still pay local school taxes, even though their children attend Amish-run parochial schools.

Do Amish pay property taxes?
Yes. Amish homeowners and farmers pay property taxes the same as everyone else, which helps fund local services and infrastructure.

What about healthcare costs if they don’t pay Medicare taxes?
The Amish pay their own medical expenses, often with help from community “alms funds.” In some cases, hospitals offer discounted rates because the bills are paid directly without insurance bureaucracy.

Do Amish businesses pay taxes?
Yes. Amish-owned businesses pay federal, state, and local taxes, including income and sales taxes. The only exemption is for Social Security and Medicare, if they qualify.