The difference between your job (and most jobs) and umpiring, is that if you quit your job, someone is gonna be there to fill it, that's not the case for umpires.Sooooo, just like every other job out there.
Oh my, I have to get to my job by myself too(time & money).
My job takes tech school training and license. Guess what, not covered by an employer. Probably more time, money, commitment than an afternoon ump course.
Work clothing and PPE......out of pocket
Taxes you say....99% of umps are dodging taxes.
$40 hr for an ump gig is golden. teachers, cops, firefighters aren't getting that