Does it pay?

[Gina]

Originally Posted by Tink

Between hubby and I, we make about double now what we did just 3 years ago. Our kids have since graduated, and so our expenses have also decreased. As many of you know, I'm less than thrilled with my new job. I work to keep medical insurance, but given the choice, I wouldn't stay where I'm at.

Our recent raises have put us in an income category that puts us in a whole different tax bracket. The difference in our tax obligation is going to be considerable.
This past year hubby was off work for 5 months with a back injury, so we won't get socked too bad. This year it could cost us a LOT more.

Looking at the tax rate difference, our take home wouldn't be a whole lot less if I switched to part time. This would knock us down a bracket and give me the chance to work fewer hours; hopefully in a job I'd like better and be less stressed by.

I plan to discuss this with hubby and actually did apply for a part time job today that sounds like it would fit my plan well.

Does this sound insane to you? Should I just bite the bullet and stick it out where I am? Hubby works 70 hrs a week, and here I am not wanting to do 40? Does this sound selfish or lazy to you? I have to wonder if I'm just looking for a way to justify what I really want regardless that the facts do fit my situation.

Tink...

Think about it, you have answered your own question. Your finished with college tutition payments. Lets face it most of us work to help our kids with school as much as we can. If you are being taxed in a higher bracket, your working for Uncle Sam at this point. If you can make your payments and live according to your means on a part time salary go for it. The heavy burden is over and you want to enjoy life a little now until retirement. So be happy at a job that you love to go to everyday. No you don't sound lazy or selfish. Good luck with whatever you decide.