Who believes that the economic burden of being middle class in America is difficult.
TaxProf blog posted an interesting excerpt from Todd Zywicki’s op-ed piece in the Wall Street Journal about double income (at a middle class level) families and their struggle with an increased tax burden. The piece was derived from a review of The Two Income Trap: Why Middle Class Mothers and Fathers are Going Broke, by Harvard Law School Professor Elizabeth Warren and her daughter Amelia Tyagi.
I’ve previously explored this idea of working mothers – and increased expenses – on taxgirl here.
I’d love to hear your experiences. Do you have a two income family? Do you feel that both of you work because you want to, or because you have to? Do you find that increased income has lead to increased financial burdens?
Personally, I work as a nurse 12 hours a week outside the home, take care of my 3 little girls, watch my nephews with compensation 3 days a week and serve as the channel editor for the science and health division of b5media. Oh yes, and I write on 2 blogs myself, Diabetes Notes and A Hearty Life. I guess you could say I work, although many people see it as ONLY part time. And I find myself being defensive at times and feeling the need to share what my daily responsibilities are. I work for extra income to allow us to take part in the activities that we have become accustom to and pay for the kids sports and club fees, which is about $1500 for the indoor swimming season, not including gear and meets. I contribute all of my “extra” income to the family pot. And yes, I think the more money you make, the more money you spend, ie. mortgage, clothes, vacations, bigger toys and more toys then Santa’s shop. But when it comes down to it, I do not have the personality that could do the mommy thing 24/7. I give all of you mommies that choose to “stay home” with your children all the credit in the world. I also give full time working mommy props as well. And then there is the part timers like me that don’t really fit in either category. I give us kudos too. I think to eaches own. Do what fits your family, which we all know means “do what your family can afford”. Boy am I long winded! Have a great weekend.
Hi Taxgirl,
I would like to blogroll your site on my tax blog. Let me know. Hope there are no tax implications involved — hmmm … maybe some government somewhere will think of something.
Till then cheers
Lubna
Women are allowed to work? Sheesh, next they will want to vote.