You’re Under Attax

(It’s not uncommon around where I live for people or businesses to leave off sales tax when customers pay in cash. Because this is illegal, my business does not leave tax off, but many customers are still used to this practice. I’ve had many variations of this conversation:)

Me: “Hello! Your total today will be $425.”

Customer: “Okay, but I have cash so there’s no tax.”

Me: “Sorry, sir. Your material is taxable, so I’ll have to charge sales tax.”

Customer: “What?! What are you talking about? I’m. Paying. In. CASH. NO TAX!”

Me: “Sir, it is against the law to not charge tax on taxable items.”

Customer: “Well, I don’t see how that’s my problem!”

Me: “Sir, I am not willing to get in trouble with the government over your $25 in tax money. If you do not intend to pay the full amount, I’m afraid you will not be leaving here with your material.”

Customer: *pays, but leaves muttering about us and the government*