For instance, it won't prevent Steve Weaver from opening another two Uptown Cheapskate retail stores next year. He and his wife currently own four in North Carolina, and the slated tax increase on top income earners would drop their profits by 2%.
That means they'll have a less cash around to open the next store. But 2% of their profits isn't much compared to the $225,000 it'll cost to open another location in March.
"It'll delay me a little bit, but I don't mind paying what I need to pay," Weaver said. "I'm doing well. It doesn't bother me."
Although Weaver identifies himself as a Republican, he disagrees with those who reject all tax increases. He noted that government spending is what allowed for the construction of the Western Wake Freeway extension near his store in Apex, N.C., making it easier for customers to travel south to his store.
Instead, he fears political paralysis over the fiscal cliff will freeze consumer spending.
"Uncertainty in the economy is going to cost me a hell of a lot more than this tax increase is," he said.