We all know that the U.S. relies on immigrants to help grow our economy. Immigrants have always been an important part of the fabric of our country. In 2018, foreign-born individuals made up 14 percent of the national population and 17 percent of the U.S. labor force. This means that immigrants hold critical jobs and add to our economy. They also contribute billions of dollars in taxes every year.
Here are 3 facts* about immigrants and the economy everyone should know:
- Immigrant-led households across the United States contributed a total of $308.6 billion in federal taxes in 2018. They contributed $150 billion in combined state and local taxes in 2018.
- Undocumented immigrants in the United States paid an estimated $20.1 billion in federal taxes. They paid $11.8 billion in combined state and local taxes in 2018.
- DACA recipients and those meeting the eligibility requirements for DACA paid an estimated $1.7 billion in combined state and local taxes in 2018.
- *Source: American Immigration Council, Fact Sheet: Immigrants in the United States (Aug. 6, 2020)
We know financial contributions do not define the value of a person. However, America cannot ignore how immigrants contribute to our nation’s economy. We must continue to welcome immigrants with open arms. We cannot turn our backs on people hoping for a more prosperous future and a chance at the American Dream.