Joe legal works in construction, has a Social Security number and makes $25.00 per hour with taxes deducted. Jose illegal also works in construction has no Social Security number and makes $15.00 per hour cash, under the table. Ready?... now pay attention.... Joe legal: $25.00 per hour × 40 hours = $1,000.00 per week or $52,000.00 per year. Now, take 31% away for State and Federal taxes. Joe legal now has $31,231.00. Jose illegal: $15.00 an hour × 40 hours = $600.00 per week or $31,200.00 per year. Jose illegal pays no taxes.