Our old friends are self employed and were saying that they were upset as they may get benefits reduced . They said that they have kept income apparently low - but not really - so that they don't pay tax at all and get credits .
Dh and I were surprised and didn't say anything as taken aback .
He had told us that for a weekend job for eg he earns 800 pounds .
I really like them but this discussion has raised uncomfortable feelings for me .if everyone did this then how would the country run , benefits be paid etc . I find it I consistant with my beliefs that we should all muck in together .of course I know this goes on and at much higher levels . I'm finding it an elephant in the room in our friendship as I find it wrong but they are lovely people . I'm not saying I'm perfect God forbid ! But this feels a deal breaker to me on my moral compass .
Has anyone had an issue with friends which they have found hard ? And did it affect things ? I can't key this affect the friendship yet I feel angry .
It's not that they are trying to make ends meet .they only work couple of days a week . Have relaxed lifestyle it seems but the benefit cut s may alter this .
MNHQ have commented on this thread
AIBU?
To struggle with self employed friend who declares that income is low to avoid paying tax and get benefits
ginorwine · 04/08/2015 18:10
They aren't doing anything wrong- that's how tax laws work if you're self-employed. Unless you don't have an ISA because you believe it's morally incumbent upon you to pay as much tax as possible, you aren't actually doing anything different.
Having said that, I don't think being in a position where you only need to work two days a week, and still claiming benefits (childcare requirements aside, obv) is admirable. I'm quite 
about that.
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