Unusual Items That Have Been Taxed in U.S. History
Explore the bizarre and surprising history of taxes in the United States. From taxed fruits from vending machines to rain taxes and oddly taxed items like belt buckles and candles, this article reveals the most unusual levies ever imposed. Discover how these quirky taxes reflect unique moments in US tax history and the surprising ways government funding has been collected over the years.
Paying taxes is vital for government operations, but some taxes have been surprisingly bizarre. While most taxes fund public projects, certain levies have raised eyebrows over the years. Below are some of the most unusual items that have faced taxation in the United States.
Fruits from vending machines: In California, despite fruits generally being tax-exempt, a 33% tax has been applied to fruits sold via vending machines.
Hats: Historically, hats were taxed to offset British imports, making them one of the earliest taxed items.
New York Bagels: While whole bagels are tax-exempt in New York, sliced bagels are considered prepared food and taxed at 8.875%.
Glass: Taxes on glass have historically varied based on color; white glass often attracted higher taxes than others.
Balloon rides in Kansas: Kansas taxes hot-air balloon rides at 6.5%, viewing them as transport rather than leisure.
More Weird Taxes:
Calendars: Taxes based on the length of a calendar, one of the oddest tax concepts.
Belt buckles: In Texas, belt buckles are taxed at 6.25%, classified as jewelry or accessories.
Cup lids and caps: Colorado taxes cup lids and caps despite the cup itself being tax-free.
Candy: In Illinois, candies made without flour are taxed, as they lack the exempting ingredient.
Legal documents: Taxed historically via stamp duties since the Stamp Act of 1765.
Rain: Stormwater management fees, nicknamed the “rain tax,” fund environmental protection and were introduced in 2012.
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