Welcome to the Freeman Movement forum dedicated to understanding and navigating the complex world of taxes and National Insurance Contributions (NICs). Here, we'll explore various forms of taxation you might encounter, delve into the less obvious taxes, and discuss strategies from a "Freeman on the Land" viewpoint regarding lawful rebellion and tax reduction or avoidance.
Understanding Taxation
Direct Taxes:
- Income Tax: This is probably the most recognized tax, levied on income from employment, self-employment, and investments. In the UK, this includes PAYE (Pay As You Earn) for employees, and self-assessment for the self-employed.
- National Insurance Contributions (NICs): Although often considered alongside income tax, NICs are technically a separate contribution, providing eligibility for certain state benefits like the state pension, maternity allowance, and some unemployment benefits. There are different classes of NICs, with Class 1 being the most common, deducted directly from your earnings.
- Value Added Tax (VAT): This tax is applied to most goods and services, with standard rates in the UK currently at 20%. VAT affects consumers indirectly, as it's included in the price they pay.
- Excise Duties: Commonly known as "duty," this is charged on specific goods like alcohol, tobacco, and petrol. These are often hidden within the price of goods, making them less noticeable.
- Council Tax: A form of property tax in the UK based on the value of your home.
- Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT): Taxed when purchasing property or land over a certain value.
- Inheritance Tax: Levied on the estate of someone who has passed away, depending on the value of their estate.
- Capital Gains Tax: On profits from selling assets like property or stocks.
Many taxes are hidden within the cost of everyday goods and services:
- Fuel Duty: Added to the price of petrol or diesel.
- Insurance Premium Tax: Added to insurance policies.
- Air Passenger Duty: An additional charge for air travel.
- Understand Your Rights: The Freeman on the Land movement emphasizes understanding the legalities around taxation. Members often assert that one can legally opt out of certain tax obligations if they're not legally defined as a 'taxpayer' under specific statutes.
- Challenge Statutory Authority: Some proponents argue for challenging the jurisdiction or the authority of tax collectors through legal means. This often involves detailed legal research and challenging the presumption that one must pay taxes simply because they are demanded.
- Reduce Taxable Income: Legally reducing your taxable income through investments in tax-free options like ISAs, or by structuring your business in a way that minimizes tax liability.
- Claim Exemptions: There are numerous exemptions and reliefs available for various taxes. For instance, if you work from home, you might be entitled to claim for a portion of your utility bills or council tax reduction.
- Avoiding PAYE: Some Freemen argue that by not being an employee but instead a contractor or setting up a company, one can avoid the automatic deduction of PAYE.
- National Insurance Contributions: Here, the argument might be made for opting out of NICs by not registering as an employee or employer. However, this comes with significant risks regarding future benefit claims.
- Caution: It's crucial to approach tax avoidance with caution. The strategies outlined can be contentious and might not stand up in court. Tax evasion is illegal, and severe penalties or even imprisonment can result from deliberate non-compliance.
- Seek Advice: Before taking any drastic steps, seeking advice from a solicitor or tax advisor who understands both the legal and Freeman perspectives is recommended.
- Documentation: Keep thorough records of all correspondence, especially if you choose to challenge tax demands or reduce your tax footprint.
In conclusion, navigating taxes from a Freeman on the Land perspective requires a nuanced understanding of both law and the tax system. While there are ways to minimize your tax burden legally, the line between lawful avoidance and illegal evasion can be thin. Always proceed with full knowledge and, if possible, professional guidance to ensure your actions align with both your beliefs and the law. Remember, the Freeman Movement encourages informed consent and lawful interaction with systems of governance, including taxation.
