Who's bartering? Your original example was of a gift. Gifts under $14,000 don't need to be reported. [1] If bartering is involved, then yes, it ought to be r

Who's bartering? Your original example was of a gift. Gifts under $14,000 don't need to be reported. [1] If bartering is involved, then yes, it ought to be reported as taxable, or it's unethical for the reasons you state. [1] https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/frequently-asked-questions-on-gift-taxes https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employe...