off the books

[AlKalineTrio]

Im a college student and I work as a barback on the weekends at a bar around the corner from my apartment. Thing is I get paid cash and am not on the official payroll. My question is can I put this job down as a reference when testing, and if so later on during a background investigation is this going to get me or my employer in trouble because I dont pay taxes on the money? Also just to let everyone know i don't drink on the job or afterwards with the other employees. Thank you for all your opinions.

[brianz]

Your boss is finding a way to write your expense off. It would be stupid not to because that is a 100% write off. It equates to about 30% of what he pays you gets taken directly off of the tax the business pays. He may claim you as casual labor. If the amount paid is under 600 he does not need to have any peronal information on you for the IRS. If it is more he needs to issue you a 1099. As long as you claim the income on your 1040 it should be ok. If not, it is tax evasion unless the amount paid to you is under a certain amount. The kicker is if you are issued a 1099 you have to also pay self employment tax on that income.

[AlKalineTrio]

got it thank you

[brianz]

He could be paying you with money he is getting under the table. If that is the case then it could be looked at as money laundering on your end. Your situation is a slippery slope, so tread lighly and do what you think you need to do.

[Fargo2722]

I doubt it will get your employer in trouble; the issue is that it can reflect poorly on you. While the hours work well with your college schedule and having the cash is a terrific short-term benefit it may not be the best choice for the long haul. Here's a departments logic, "If he has no problem taking money under the table at that job would he be more likely to take a bribe from a business owner during a fire inspection down the road?" Now of course you're a straight up guy that wouldn't consider that but why even have that question, or suspicion, on the table.
If you're able to find jobs and positions that are on the level this will allow you to confidently list that work experience on your personal history as well as list those employers as references. This might mean working different hours or doing something that isn't as fun but in the long run you can refer back to those jobs without worrying. Just my .02, best of luck to you.
-ww