Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should churches pay taxes?
Position1 of 2›

Yes, churches should pay taxes

This position holds that churches should pay taxes. It argues that their tax-exempt status actually threatens religious freedom and breeds injustice, that taxing them would reflect modern values, and that any church not genuinely serving the common good has no claim to exemption.

Supporting arguments · 4

  1. The tax-exempt status of churches breeds injustice
    All institutions, including religious ones, need to be held accountable for their finances.
  2. A church tax would reflect the values of modern society
    The tradition of church tax-exemption is antiquated and does not belong in the modern age.
  3. If churches do not stand for common good they should pay taxes
    If they get involved in political campaigns or break laws or are not standing for common good they should be taxed.
  4. Tax-exemption of churches violates religious freedom
    In a society that values freedom of religion, churches' special treatment from the government is unacceptable.