Today's an important day for tax payers -- 'tax freedom? day. The first five-and-one-half months of the year are how long it's estimated the average American has to work to pay all his state and federal taxes. After today, you're earning for yourself -- not Uncle Sam. With that in mind, here's why you should consider doing more work yourself, too. Every time you hire someone to do a chore or make a repair that you could do yourself, you're paying with money you've already paid tax on. For most people every dollar in reality costs you between $1.15 and $1.35. So, before you pay $10 to wash the car or hire someone to do yard work or small repairs, consider what things really cost. It's all the more reason to do work yourself, whenever you can. Taxes are hidden costs on every dollar you spend. And that's the On The House tip for today.