Bill Belichick, the legendary former coach of the New England Patriots, did not mince words when he criticized the state of Massachusetts for its high tax rate, which he believes makes it more challenging to attract top players to the team.
During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Belichick lamented that the state’s tax policies are not conducive to the Patriots’ success. He noted that the state’s millionaire tax, which imposes a four percent surcharge on income exceeding $1 million, affects nearly every player on the team, including those on the practice squad.
Belichick quipped that Massachusetts is “Taxachusetts,” highlighting the state’s reputation for having high taxes. He pointed out that many players, even those with modest salaries, are subject to the millionaire tax, which can be a significant burden.
The former coach also noted that the state’s tax policies put the Patriots at a disadvantage in negotiations with agents, who often factor in the tax implications when considering offers. Belichick emphasized that the team does not benefit from the state’s tax revenue, making it harder to compete with teams from states with lower or no state income tax, such as Tennessee, Florida, or Nevada.
Despite his criticism, Belichick still resides in Massachusetts and recently purchased a $4.8 million home in Nantucket. However, his comments reflect the concerns of many in the sports industry who feel that the state’s tax policies can hinder its ability to attract and retain top talent.
According to Wallet Hub, Massachusetts ranks 20th in terms of its total state tax burden, with an annual rate of 8.55 percent, excluding the four percent surcharge. The top five states with the highest tax burdens are New York, Hawaii, Vermont, Maine, and California.
