Do Congressmen Pay Taxes?

Really? A Member of Congress doesn’t have to pay income tax?

As a matter of fact, Members of Congress must pay Federal income tax on their salaries along with any other taxes they are liable for, just like every other American.

The Internal Revenue Code – Title 26 U.S.C. – establishes that anyone who makes over approximately $22,000 a year*, regardless of the source of income, must pay an income tax. That covers income from private business, government salaries, military pay, and even unemployment benefits. Congressmen and Senators must pay Federal income taxes like all citizens.

Members of Congress must also pay their share of the FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) tax, which funds Social Security and Medicare, as well as all applicable state and local taxes.

* Unmarried individuals.