Ultimate Guide to Connecticut Sales Tax | TaxHero

With its historic charm and modern energy, Connecticut is a great place for businesses. Known for its beautiful towns, top universities, and strong maritime history, it offers a unique business environment. To do business here, it’s important to know the specific sales tax in CT laws that reflect the state’s unique economy and culture.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Connecticut’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Connecticut’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Connecticut

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in CT.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require collecting and paying sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Connecticut include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business. This includes owning or leasing real or tangible personal property within the state.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus or Click-through Nexus: If a business is owned or controlled by a retailer already operating in the state and is involved in a similar type of business, it’s subject to the same regulations. This also applies to businesses owned or controlled by the same group that owns a retailer doing similar business in Connecticut. 
  5. Presence at Trade Show: To sell items at events like flea markets or craft shows in Connecticut, even for just one day, you need a Sales and Use Tax Permit from DRS, which should be clearly displayed at your booth or table.

To stay informed about the current criteria for establishing a physical sales tax nexus in Connecticut, take a look at the official regulations available right here!

 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning July 1, 2019, Connecticut’s threshold for economic nexus is $100,000 in gross revenue or 200 transactions during the 12-month period ending on September 30.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Connecticut.

   

Connect with TaxHero

 

Connecticut Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Connecticut. 

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Connecticut, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

Services

In Connecticut, the majority of service-based transactions, such as medical services, and engineering are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is taxable in the state of Connecticut.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are also taxable.

A rate of 1% applies to the sale of computer and data processing services. This includes digital downloads and streaming services.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Connecticut are taxable. The tax applies only to shipping charges for taxable items and not to such charges for tax-exempt items.

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Connecticut

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Connecticut, the next important step is getting your Connecticut Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Sales and Use Tax Permit online through MyConnectCT or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is a $100 fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Connecticut, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit. Your Sales and Use Tax Permit automatically renews every two years for free if your account is active and in good standing.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.  

In Connecticut, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the Connecticut Sales and Use Tax Resale Certificate provided by Connecticut after you receive your sales tax permit. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Connecticut Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Connecticut is not a party to this program, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations. 

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Connecticut

Sales Tax Computation

To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Connecticut Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Connecticut and sells to a customer in Bridgeport, CT, with a ZIP code of 06604. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

 
SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Connecticut
6.35%
County: Firfield
N/A
District: Fourth District
N/A
City: Bridgeport
N/A
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
6.35%

Origin-based vs. Destination-based 

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax. 

Connecticut is destination-based, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for a Connecticut-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Ohio to a customer in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where you have nexus, you’d apply Bridegeport’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Connecticut

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Connecticut sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Connecticut’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates 

In Connecticut, the due date falls on or before the last day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 28th (or 29th if it’s a leap year) for monthly filers. 

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 31st deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until June 1st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Connecticut, a few options are available:

  1. Fill in Form OS‑114 and submit it online through myconneCT.
  2. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return. 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, the planned sales tax holidays in Connecticut are: 

Connecticut Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Connecticut generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Connecticut:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Connecticut or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Colorado Sales Tax | TaxHero

Nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains, Colorado’s stunning natural beauty and business-friendly policies make it a premier destination for entrepreneurs. However, successfully launching and running an enterprise here requires grappling with the complexities of the state’s sales tax codes. For both existing and aspiring business owners, having a handle on sales tax in Colorado is crucial for smooth sailing.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Colorado’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Colorado’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Colorado

It is important to understand that Colorado is a home-rule state. This means that many of its cities and counties have the authority to set their own sales tax rates and regulations independently of the state’s rules. As of January 1, 2024, Colorado has 66 home-rule cities and two home-rule counties (Denver County and Bloomfield County). As a result, businesses operating in multiple home-rule jurisdictions within the state may find it challenging to navigate these varied regulations. Moreover, when a business establishes either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Colorado. 

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Colorado include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Presence at Trade Show: If you’re selling at a special event, you need to collect and pay sales taxes to the state. You can either pay these taxes directly to the Department or to the event organizer if they have a special event license. This option is available even if you have your own special event license. Before the event, make sure to get a special event license from the Department. Also, check with the event organizer or local government for any additional local sales tax rules.
 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning December 1, 2018, the threshold for economic nexus in Colorado is $100,000 in gross revenue in the previous or current calendar year’s sales.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for sales tax nexus requirements in Colorado.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Colorado Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Colorado.

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Colorado, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In Colorado, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services, advertising, and cleaning services, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance: 

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is not taxable in the state of Colorado.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in Colorado are not taxable as long as both are separately stated in the customer invoice. However, retailers must collect a $0.27 Retail Delivery Fee on all deliveries by motor vehicle that include at least one item of taxable tangible personal property. This fee applies to each sale and is in addition to any other state sales or use taxes.

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Colorado

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Colorado, the next important step is getting your Colorado Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit. Home rule refers to the authority granted to local jurisdictions, like cities and counties, to enact and administer their own sales and use taxes independently of state tax laws.

Colorado simplified sales tax permit regulations for remote sellers. Previously, businesses without a physical presence had to obtain separate licenses in each of Colorado’s home-rule cities. From July 1, 2022, these businesses can register statewide, avoiding the need for multiple local licenses with full effect on July 1, 2023.

 

Seller’s Permit

The registration process varies depending on the location of the business’s incorporation.

In-state businesses

Out-of-state businesses

You can register for a Sales Tax License online through the Colorado Revenue Online or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

The registration fee for a Colorado sales tax permit varies based on the time of application:

Additionally, new accounts must include a $50 deposit with the application, refundable after the business has collected and remitted $50 in state sales taxes.

Renewal

In Colorado, you can renew your sales tax permit every two years through the Renewal Application for Sales Tax License form. Applicants must pay a $16 fee, which is prorated based on the issuance date. Wholesale licenses expire on December 31st of odd-numbered years (e.g., 2023, 2025, 2027) unless revoked sooner by the CO Department of Revenue.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate or wholesale license is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Colorado, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

Businesses that plan to purchase items for resale without paying sales tax should obtain a Colorado sales tax account/license by completing the CR 0100 form. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Colorado Resale Certificate for your Business

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Colorado is not a party to this program, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations.

Check with the Colorado Department of Revenue for the most current information on Colorado’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Colorado

Sales Tax Computation

In Colorado, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Additionally, the tax rate and rules can vary significantly in home rule jurisdictions, where local governments set and administer their own sales and use taxes independently. Use TaxHero’s Colorado Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in California and sells to a customer in the home-rule city of Denver, CO, with a ZIP code of 80201. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Colorado
2.90%
County: Denver
0.00%
District: Seventh District
1.10%
City: Denver
4.81%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
8.81%*
 

*includes a fixed-amount Retail Delivery Fee

 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based 

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Colorado is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for a Colorado-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from California to a customer in Denver, CO, where you have nexus, you’d apply Denver’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Colorado

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Colorado sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Colorado sales tax regulations. Meanwhile, in self-collecting home rule cities, different filing requirements and guidelines may apply. For specific information on these jurisdictions, you may contact the respective local cities directly.

 

Due Dates 

In Colorado, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Colorado, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Revenue Online portal.
  2. File by mail – Complete DR 0100 and mail it to the Colorado Department of Revenue.
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.
 

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly. Colorado’s timely filing discount allows filers to retain 4.00% of their sales tax due or up to $1,000 per filing period. However, businesses with sales tax collections over $1,000,000 are not eligible for the filing discount.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, there are no planned sales tax holidays in Colorado.

 

Colorado Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Colorado generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Colorado:

 
Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Colorado or any state!
 

Ultimate Guide to Arkansas Sales Tax | TaxHero

Arkansas, famed for its stunning Ozark Mountains and thriving agriculture, is more than just a natural gem of the South. With its growing business hubs and bustling trade, understanding sales tax in Arkansas is essential for businesses and consumers alike.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Arkansas’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Arkansas’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Arkansas

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Arkansas.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Arkansas include:

 
  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.

To stay informed about the current criteria for establishing a physical sales tax nexus in Arkansas, take a look at the official regulations available right here!

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning July 1, 2019, the threshold for economic nexus in Arkansas is $100,000 in gross revenue or 200 transactions in the previous or current calendar year’s sales.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing economic sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Arkansas.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Arkansas Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Arkansas.

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Arkansas, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In Arkansas, the majority of service-based transactions, such as information services and employment services, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

 

Software as a Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is not taxable in the state of Arkansas.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are taxable when sold to end users for permanent or temporary use.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Arkansas are taxable. Freight charges are taxed if tied to taxable goods unless billed by a carrier or for non-taxable goods. 

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Arkansas

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Arkansas, the next important step is getting your Arkansas Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for an Arkansas seller’s permit online through the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point (ATAP) or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is a $50 fee to register for a sales tax permit for businesses with a physical presence in the state and free for out-of-state/remote sellers with no physical presence.

Renewal

In Arkansas, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Arkansas, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the Arkansas Exemption Certificate (Form ST 391) provided by Arkansas after you receive your sales tax permit. You can also fill out the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption if you would like to get sales tax exemption for multiple states simultaneously. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get an Arkansas Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. Arkansas is a party to this program, meaning it follows the uniform rules and definitions established by SST.

Check with the Arkansas Revenue Services for the most current information on Arkansas’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Arkansas

Sales Tax Computation

In Arkansas, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Arkansas and sells to a customer in Little Rock, AR, with a ZIP code of 72201. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Arkansas
6.50%
County: Pulaski
1.00%
District: Second District
0.00%
City: Little Rock
1.13%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
8.63%
 

Origin-based vs. Destination-Based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based state or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Arkansas is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for an Arkansas-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Mississippi to a customer in Aberdeen, Arkansas, where you have nexus, you’d apply Aberdeen’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Arkansas

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Arkansas sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Arkansas’s sales tax regulations.

Due Dates

In Arkansas, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Monthly Prepayments

Businesses with a notable sales tax liability may need to make monthly prepayments ahead of their monthly return filings. The specifics of these prepayments depend on the business’s prior year’s tax liabilities.

Arkansas Pre-pay Sales Tax on a Vehicle lets vehicle buyers pay sales tax before titling or registering, avoiding penalties while awaiting dealership paperwork. Dealers can also use it to pay a customer’s sales tax.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Arkansas, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Arkansas Taxpayer Access Point (ATAP).
  2. File by mail – You can file and pay using Form ET-1 by mail. Contact the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration at 501-682-7104 to request the form.
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer businesses a discount for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly. Since July 2019, the DFA has provided a 2% discount for timely filings, capped at $1,000 monthly. Local jurisdictions may also offer a 2% discount, up to $4,000 per city or county.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2024-2025, here is the planned sales tax holiday in Arkansas:

 
DATE TYPE ELIGIBLE MERCHANDISE
August 2-5, 2025 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

Various school-related items, including:

  • Clothing and footwear ($100/item or less)
  • Clothing accessories and equipment ($50/item or less)
  • School supplies

Arkansas Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Arkansas generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of the utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Arkansas:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Arkansas or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Arizona Sales Tax | TaxHero

Positioned as a beacon of commerce and tourism in the Southwest, Arizona is not only renowned for its dramatic landscapes and cultural richness but also for its thriving business environment. However, navigating the intricacies of transaction privilege tax,  also referred to as sales tax, in the Grand Canyon State requires an understanding of its particular rules and regulations.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Arizona’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Arizona’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Arizona

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Arizona.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Arizona include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business. This includes ownership or lease of real or personal property in Arizona.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Delivery of merchandise into Arizona on vehicles owned or leased by the taxpayer.
  5. Ownership or lease of real or personal property in Arizona.

To stay informed about the current criteria for establishing a physical sales tax nexus in Arizona, take a look at the official regulations available right here!

 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning 2021, the threshold for economic nexus in Arizona is $100,000 in gross revenue in the previous or current calendar year’s sales.

The economic nexus law went into effect on October 1, 2019. This law allows Arizona to require out-of-state sellers to collect and remit sales tax if they meet the specified sales threshold.

Graduated Thresholds: In 2019, the threshold was $200,000. In 2020, it was revised to $150,000. From Jan 1, 2021 onward, the threshold has been set at $100,000.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing economic sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Arizona.

 

Connect with TaxHero

 

Arizona Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Arizona.

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Arizona, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In Arizona, the majority of all service-based transactions, such as professional services, advertising, and cleaning services, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is taxable in the state of Arizona.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Arizona are not taxable. Shipping and handling charges are only exempt from sales tax when a customer’s total bill includes separate fees specifically for delivering items to them, regardless of delivery location, and these fees are clearly listed in the seller’s records.

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Arizona

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Arizona, the next important step is getting your Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax License , also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Transaction Privilege Tax License online through the Arizona Department of Revenue or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is a $12.00 fee to register for a sales tax permit. Vendors need to get a special permit to sell things in each city they do business in. Different cities charge different fees for this permit, ranging from $2.00 to $50.00. If a vendor is from out of state but sells in Arizona, there are additional rules they need to know.

Renewal

In Arizona, you have to renew your sales tax permit annually.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Arizona, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the Arizona Form 5000A provided by Arizona if you have a sales tax permit in the state after you receive your sales tax permit. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get an Arizona Resale Certificate for your Business

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Arizona is not a party to this program, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Arizona

Sales Tax Computation

In Arizona, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Arizona Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Arizona and sells to a customer in Phoenix, AZ, with a ZIP code of 85003. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

 
SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Arizona
5.60%
County: Maricopa County
0.70%
District: Seventh District
0.00%
City: Phoenix
2.30%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
8.60%

Origin-based vs. Destination-based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Arizona is an origin-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the seller’s location. That means for an Arizona-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the seller when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Illinois to a customer in Phoenix, Arizona, where you have nexus, you’d apply Phoenix’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Arizona

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Arizona sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Arizona’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates

In Arizona, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21st, the following business day, to submit.

Annual Prepayments

If your business has an annual Arizona sales tax liability of $1 million or more, you must make an estimated prepayment by June 20. This estimated payment should equal either half your actual sales tax for May or your total sales tax for the first 15 days of June. This prepayment will be credited against the total sales tax due when you file your June return in July.

Even if your prior year’s sales tax was under $100,000, you may still need to make a June estimated payment if you expect your total current year liability to reach $100,000 or more.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Arizona, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Arizona Department of Revenue.
  2. File by mail by using Form TPT-EZ for in-state, and TPT-2 for out-of-state/remote sellers to file and pay through the mail.
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

In Arizona, paying your sales tax on time earns you a 1% discount up to $10,000 annually. Additionally, filing online gives an extra 1.2% discount, capped at $12,000 a year. However, these discounts don’t apply to local TPT.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, there are no planned sales tax holidays in Arizona.

 

Arizona Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Arizona generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Arizona:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Arizona or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Alabama Sales Tax | TaxHero

Alabama, often referred to as the “Heart of Dixie,” is celebrated for its rich history and vibrant culture from the bustling streets of Birmingham to the tranquil Gulf Shores. Yet, for businesses operating within this state, understanding the nuances of sales tax in Alabama is as crucial as understanding its diverse economic landscape.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Alabama’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Alabama’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Alabama

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Alabama.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Alabama include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus: You could trigger a physical nexus if you have affiliates, whether they operate online or in-person, who maintain one or more locations within Alabama.
  5. Receive orders from Alabama consumers by using Alabama-based broadcasters or publishers to share your advertising. Generate sales of physical products through frequent and significant mail campaigns, especially if your business gains from services like banking, financing, debt collection, telecommunications, or marketing happening in Alabama.
  6. Deliver physical products within the state using vehicles the seller owns.
  7. Presence at Trade Show: If you attended as a customer or took orders at a trade show, you must collect sales tax at Alabama trade shows.

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning October 1, 2018, the threshold for economic nexus in Alabama is $250,000 in gross revenue in the previous calendar year’s sales.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for sales tax nexus requirements in Alabama.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Alabama Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Alabama.

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Alabama, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In Alabama, all service-based transactions, such as professional services, advertising, and cleaning services are not subject to sales tax. However, if a service is performed as part of manufacturing or creating a new tangible item that will later be sold, sales tax may apply to that service, even if the charges for the service are listed separately from the sale price of the item.

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is taxable in the state of Alabama.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, computer software, mobile apps) are also taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in Alabama are taxable if the delivery was made by the seller’s own vehicle or in a leased vehicle. However, if the delivery is made by a common carrier or the U.S. postal service and billed as a separate item and paid directly or indirectly by the buyer, it is not taxable..

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Alabama

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Alabama, the next important step is getting your Alabama Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Sellers Use Tax online through the My Alabama Taxes or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Alabama, you must renew your sales tax permit annually through your My Alabama Taxes account.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Alabama, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the Form ST-EX A1 Application for Sales Tax Certificate of Exemption provided by the Alabama Department of Revenue after you receive your sales tax permit. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get an Alabama Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Alabama is not a party to this program as it’s only an advisory state, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations.

Check with the Alabama Department of Revenue for the most current information on Alabama’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Alabama

 

Sales Tax Computation

In Alabama, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes, with eligible out-of-state or remote sellers having to apply first before they can start reporting, paying, and collecting the 8.00% use tax rate different from the normal sales tax rate. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Alabama Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Texas and sells to a customer in Huntsville, AL, with a ZIP code of 35808. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Alabama
4.00%
County: Madison
1.50%
District: Fifth 0.00%
City: Huntsville
0.00%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
5.50%

* includes 1.00% Madison County Special Tax Rate

 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Alabama is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for an Alabama-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For eligible out-of-state or remote sellers with economic nexus in Alabama, they must apply and be accepted first before they can start collecting the 8.00% seller’s use tax rate. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Texas to a customer in Huntsville, Alabama, where you have nexus, you’d have to apply Huntsville’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Alabama

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Alabama sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, bi-annually, or annually. By default, all businesses are required to file sales tax returns monthly. However:

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Alabama’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates

In Alabama, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Alabama, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the My Alabama Taxes website.
  2. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly. Alabama’s timely filing discount is a 2% discount for the first $400,000 of sales taxes collected and repeated, with the discount not exceeding $8,000 per month.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, the planned sales tax holidays in Alabama are:

Alabama Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Alabama generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Alabama:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Alabama or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Florida Sales Tax | TaxHero

Positioned as a gateway of commerce and tourism in the Southeast, Florida is not only renowned for its sun-kissed beaches and attractions but also for its thriving business environment. However, navigating the intricacies of sales tax in Florida requires an understanding of its particular rules and regulations.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Sunshine state’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Florida’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Florida

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Florida.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Florida include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Presence at Trade Show: You must collect sales tax at Florida trade shows if you are present and/or making any sales.
  5. Tangible Personal Property: This includes vehicles, machinery, equipment, or other goods.
 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning July 1, 2021, the threshold for economic nexus in Florida is $100,000 in gross revenue in the previous calendar year’s sales.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Florida.

   

Connect with TaxHero

 

Florida Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Florida.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Florida, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

Services

In Florida, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services, advertising, and salon services, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is not taxable in the state of Florida.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are also not taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Florida are taxable when imposed with the sale of a taxable item. These charges are exempt from sales tax if they are distinctly listed on a bill or invoice and if the buyer has the option to avoid these charges through their sole decision or action (for example, by choosing to pick up the item themselves or organizing their own third-party transport services).

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Florida

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Florida, the next important step is getting your Florida Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Sales and Use Tax Permit online through the Florida Department of Revenue or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Florida, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit. As long as you keep operating your business in Florida and maintain your registration for collecting sales tax, you’ll receive a new Annual Resale Certificate or Seller’s Permit every year.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Florida, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can download the Florida Annual Resale Certificate for Sales Tax (Form DR-13) provided by Florida in your [portal]. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service, including sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Florida Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Florida is not a party to this program, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations.

Check with the Florida Department of Revenue for the most current information on Florida’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Florida

Sales Tax Computation

In Florida, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Florida Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Florida and sells to a customer in Miami, FL, with a ZIP code of 33101. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

 
SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Florida
6.00%
County: Miami-Dade
1.00%
District: 27th District
0.00%
City: Miami
0.00%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
7.00%

 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Florida is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s seller’s location. That means for a Florida-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Texas to a customer in Miami, Florida, where you have nexus, you’d apply Miami’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Florida

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Florida sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Florida’s sales tax regulations.

Due Dates

In Florida, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month for all filing periods. For Florida, you’re required to have your return and payment recorded in your sales tax account by the 20th. So, to be cautious, it’s best to file and send your sales tax return by the 19th of the following month, allowing time for processing and preventing any penalties.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21, the following business day, to submit. However, to play it safe in Florida, you should aim to submit and pay this before May 21.

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Florida, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Florida’s website portal.
  2. File by mail – You can use Form DR-15 and file and pay through the mail.
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

In Florida, if you file your sales and use tax return online and also pay on time, you can claim a collection discount. This discount is 2.5% of the initial $1,200 in tax owed, but it won’t be more than $30.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, the planned sales tax holidays in Florida are:

DATE TYPE ELIGIBLE MERCHANDISE
July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2025 Home Hardening two-year tax exemption for impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors.
July 1, 2023- June 30, 2025 Energy Star Appliances

Energy Star appliances for non-commercial use:

    • Refrigerators (up to $4,500)
    • Washing machines (up to $1,500)
    • Water heater (up to $1,500)
    • Clothes dryer (up to $1,500)
January 1-14, 2025 Back-to-School

Various school-related items, including:

  • Clothing, wallets, and bags (up to $100)
  • School supplies (up to $50)
  • Learning aids (up to $30)
  • Computers and computer-related accessories (up to $1,500)
2025 dates to be announced Disaster Preparedness

Various disaster preparedness-related products up to $3,000, including:

  • Batteries
  • Fuel tanks
  • Fire alarms
  • Portable generators
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
2025 dates to be announced Freedom Summer

Various outdoor supplies, including:

  • Fishing supplies
  • Camping supplies
  • Pool supplies
  • Children’s athletic equipment
 

Florida Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Florida generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Florida:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Florida or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Ohio Sales Tax | TaxHero

Ohio, a land of rolling hills and bustling cities, isn’t just about scenic beauty and vibrant urban life. There’s a key challenge for anyone diving into the business scene here: mastering Ohio’s sales tax landscape. With rules that vary as much as their landscapes, understanding these nuances is crucial for business success in the Buckeye State.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Ohio’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Ohio’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Ohio

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Ohio.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Ohio include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus Nexus: A seller has a substantial nexus with Ohio if it has an affiliated person with a substantial nexus with Ohio.

To stay informed about the current criteria for establishing a physical sales tax nexus in [State], take a look at the official regulations available right here!

 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning August 1, 2019, the threshold for economic nexus in Ohio is $100,000 in gross revenue or 200 transactions in the previous or current calendar year’s sales.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing economic sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Ohio.

 

Connect with TaxHero

 

Ohio Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you offer are taxable in Ohio.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Ohio, including

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

Services

In Ohio, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services and advertising, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is taxable in the state of Ohio.

Digital products (i.e., printed books, CDs, and DVDs, whether rented or owned) are also taxable.

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Ohio are taxable.

Sales tax is exempt if:

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Ohio

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Ohio, the next important step is getting your Ohio Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Vendor’s License online through the Ohio Business Gateway or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

If you’re a seller in Ohio, you need an Ohio sales tax permit (form ST-1, also known as a vendor’s permit), which costs $25 and must be paid by ACH debit. But if you’re a “remote seller” (located outside of Ohio but need to collect Ohio sales tax due to economic sales tax nexus), you use form UT-1000, which is free.

Renewal

In Ohio, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Ohio, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can also fill out the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption if you would like to get sales tax exemption for multiple states simultaneously. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get an Ohio Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. Ohio is a party to this program, meaning it follows the uniform rules and definitions established by SST.

Check with the Ohio Department of Taxation for the most current information on Ohio’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Ohio

Sales Tax Computation

In Ohio, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Ohio Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Ohio and sells to a customer in Columbus, OH, with a ZIP code of 43215. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

 
SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Ohio
5.75%
County: Franklin
1.25%
District: Columbus City School District
0.50%
City: Columbus
0.00%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
7.50%

Origin-based vs. Destination-based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Ohio is an origin-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for an Ohio-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Pennsylvania to a customer in Columbus, Ohio, where you have nexus, you’d apply Columbus’ sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Ohio

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Ohio sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Ohio’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates

In Ohio, the due date falls on the 23rd day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 23rd for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 23rd deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 24th, the following business day, to submit.

 

Monthly Prepayments

Businesses with a notable sales tax liability may need to make monthly prepayments ahead of their monthly return filings. The specifics of these prepayments depend on the business’s prior year’s tax liabilities.

When making a prepayment for taxes, it’s required that this payment be at least 75% of the estimated tax liability for that month. This rule ensures that taxpayers are meeting a significant portion of their anticipated tax obligations in advance.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Ohio, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Ohio Department of Taxation.
  2. File by mail – You can use Form UST-1 and file and pay through the mail.
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

The discount rate for sales tax returns filed is 0.75% of the sales tax liability reported on line 6 of the sales tax form (UST-1). This discount only applies if the Ohio Department of Taxation receives the UST-1 return and full payment on or before the due date.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, there are no planned sales tax holidays in Ohio.

 

Ohio Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Ohio generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Ohio:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Ohio or any state!

Ultimate Guide to South Dakota Sales Tax | TaxHero

South Dakota, home to Mount Rushmore and vast open prairies, keeps things simple—including its tax system. Understanding what sales tax is in South Dakota is as straightforward as the state’s wide skies and welcoming communities.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about South Dakota’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle South Dakota’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in South Dakota

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in South Dakota.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in South Dakota include:

 
  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus or Click-through Nexus: South Dakota retailers have nexus if they share ownership with an in-state business selling similar products or using local facilities or employees to aid sales. Nexus also applies if a related in-state business delivers their products.
  5. Presence at Trade Show: An out-of-state retailer doesn’t have nexus in South Dakota if it attends only one trade show per year, regardless of duration, sales, or activity. Nexus applies if more than one show is attended or other business activities occur.

To stay informed about the current criteria for establishing a physical sales tax nexus in South Dakota, take a look at the official regulations available right here!

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning July 1, 2023, the economic nexus threshold in South Dakota is more than $100,000 in gross sales in the previous or current calendar year. The 200-transaction threshold is no longer applicable.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing economic sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in South Dakota.

Connect with TaxHero

 

South Dakota Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in South Dakota.

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in South Dakota, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In South Dakota, the majority of service-based transactions, such as information services and employment services, are subject to sales tax

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

 

Software as a Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is taxable in the state of South Dakota.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are also taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of South Dakota are taxable. If a shipment has both taxable and exempt items, only the delivery cost for taxable items is taxed. Freight charges paid directly to the carrier by the buyer are not taxed.

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in South Dakota

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in South Dakota, the next important step is getting your South Dakota Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Louisiana Direct Marketer Permit online through the South Dakota Tax Application or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance. 

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In South Dakota, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In South Dakota, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the South Dakota Sales Tax Exemption Certificate provided by South Dakota after you receive your sales tax permit. You can also fill out the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption if you would like to get sales tax exemption for multiple states simultaneously. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. South Dakota is a party to this program, meaning it follows the uniform rules and definitions established by SST.

Check with the South Dakota Revenue Services for the most current information on South Dakota’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in South Dakota

Sales Tax Computation

In South Dakota, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in South Dakota and sells to a customer in Sioux Falls, SD, with a ZIP code of 57104. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: South Dakota
4.20%
County: Chittenden
0.00%
District: Third District
0.00%
City: Sioux Falls
2.00%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
6.20%
 

Origin-based vs. Destination-Based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based state or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

South Dakota is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for a South Dakota-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Mississippi to a customer in Aberdeen, South Dakota, where you have nexus, you’d apply Aberdeen’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in South Dakota

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your South Dakota sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with South Dakota’s sales tax regulations.

Due Dates

In South Dakota, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for South Dakota, a few options are available:

  1. Pay online through the South Dakota website portal.
  2. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly. In South Dakota, electronic filers can receive a 1.5% discount on the gross tax due, capped at $70 per return period.

However, under South Dakota’s House Bill 1037, the discount will temporarily be unavailable starting July 1, 2025, until July 30, 2028.

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2024-2025, there are no planned sales tax holidays in South Dakota.

South Dakota Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how South Dakota generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in South Dakota:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in South Dakota or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Tennessee Sales Tax | TaxHero

Tennessee, often celebrated as the Volunteer State for its rich history of civic involvement, stands as a musical heritage and economic vitality. Known for its vibrant culture, this state offers a unique landscape for businesses. However, mastering the nuances of Tennessee sales tax exemptions is crucial for entrepreneurs looking to thrive in Tennessee’s distinct business milieu.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Tennessee’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Tennessee’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Tennessee

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Tennessee.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Tennessee include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business. 
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Click-through Nexus: You could trigger a physical nexus if you have affiliates, whether they operate online or in-person, who have collectively sold more than $10,000 worth of products for delivery in Tennessee within the 12-month period.
  5. Presence at Tradeshows: Company staff engaging in promotional activities within Tennessee, like attending trade shows, establishes nexus with the state.
 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Tennessee enacted a new law that reduces the threshold for sales tax collection from $500,000 to $100,000, effective October 1, 2020.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for sales tax nexus requirements in Tennessee.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Tennessee Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Tennessee.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Tennessee, including:

 

Tennesse sales tax exemptions include the following:

 

Services

In Tennessee, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services and advertising, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable:

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is taxable in the state of Tennessee.

Digital products (i.e., downloaded video games, digital audio works, digital audio-visual works, digital books, and streaming videos) are also taxable. However, products such as digital newspapers or magazines, digital photographs or images, digital artwork, and digital greeting cards are not taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Tennessee are taxable if the item is taxable.

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Tennessee

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Tennessee, the next important step is getting your Tennessee Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Sales Tax Permit online through the Tennessee Taxpayer Access Point (TNTAP) or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal 

In Tennessee, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit. 

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Tennessee, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption if you would like to get sales tax exemption for multiple states simultaneously or access the resale certificate provided by the Tennessee Department of Revenue after you receive your sales tax permit at TNTAP. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Tennessee Resale Certificate for your Business

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. Tennessee has been a party to this program since October 1, 2005, meaning it follows the uniform rules and definitions established by SST.

Check with the Tennessee Department of Revenue for the most current information on Tennessee’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Tennessee

Sales Tax Computation

In Tennessee, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Tennessee Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax. 

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Tennessee and sells to a customer in Nashville, TN, with a ZIP code of 37013. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Tennessee
7.000%
County: Davidson
2.250%
District: Fifth District
0.000%
City: Nashville
0.000%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
9.250%
 

 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based 

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Tennessee is an origin-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the seller’s location. That means for a Tennessee-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the seller when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from New York to a customer in Nashville, Tennessee, where you have nexus, you’d apply Nashville’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Tennessee

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Tennessee sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually. Taxpayers with an average monthly sales and use tax liability of $1,000 or less for 12 consecutive months are authorized to file either monthly or quarterly.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Tennessee sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates 

In Tennessee, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 21st for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Tennessee, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the TNTAP.
  2. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.
 

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales taxes on time as an incentive to process them promptly. However, Tennessee does not offer a discount.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, the planned sales tax holiday in Tennessee is:

 

Tennessee Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Tennessee generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Tennessee:

 
Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Tennessee or any state!
 

Ultimate Guide to Georgia Sales Tax | TaxHero

Georgia, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history, is also a hub for trade and tourism in the Southeast. Beyond its natural beauty, the state has a growing business scene. But when it comes to handling sales tax in Georgia, it’s important to know the rules and regulations that make the process unique.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Georgia’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Georgia’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Georgia

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Georgia.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Georgia include:

 
  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus or Click-through Nexus: You could trigger a physical nexus if you have affiliates, whether they operate online or in-person, who have collectively sold more than $100,000 worth of products for delivery in Georgia in the preceding or current calendar year.
  5. Presence at Convention or Trade Show: You must collect sales tax at Georgia trade shows or conventions if you participate as an exhibitor and took orders. You will need to remit the tax collected using the Miscellaneous Sales Event Form.

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus. 

Beginning January 1, 2020, the threshold for economic nexus in Georgia is $100,000 in gross revenue or 200 transactions on the previous or current calendar year’s sales.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Georgia

 

Connect with TaxHero

 

Georgia Sales Tax on Goods and Services

Knowing whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Georgia is one of the first things you need to know.

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Georgia, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

Services

In Georgia, the majority of service-based transactions, such as medical services, project management, and engineering are not subject to sales tax. However, there are specific situations where certain services are deemed taxable.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is not taxable in the state of Georgia.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) will remain exempt from sales tax until the end of 2023. However, following the signing of Georgia Senate Bill 56 on May 2, 2023, digital products, goods, services, and downloaded codes within Georgia will be subject to Georgia sales and use tax starting from January 1, 2024.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling expenses are not taxable in the state of Georgia if the item you buy is tax-exempt. But if the item is taxable, the shipping can be fully, partially, or not taxable.

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Georgia

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Georgia, the next important step is getting your Georgia Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a seller’s permit online through the Georgia Tax Center or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Georgia, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit. It remains in effect as long as the company remains operational without any changes in ownership or structure.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Georgia, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the ST-5 tax exemption certificate form provided by Georgia if you have a sales tax permit in the state. You can also fill out the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption if you would like to get sales tax exemption for multiple states simultaneously. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Georgia Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. Georgia is a party to this program, meaning it follows the uniform rules and definitions established by SST.

Check with the Georgia Department of Tax/Revenue for the most current information on Georgia’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Georgia

Sales Tax Computation

In Georgia, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Georgia Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example: Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Georgia and sells to a customer in Atlanta, GA, with a ZIP code of 30303. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Georgia
4.00%
County: Fulton
3.00%
District: Seventh District
0.00%
City: Atlanta
1.9%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
8.90%

 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Georgia is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for a Georgia-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Texas to a customer in Atlanta, Georgia, where you have nexus, you’d apply Atlanta’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Georgia

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Georgia sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually. For the first 6 months after registering for sales tax, all businesses are required to file sales tax returns monthly. If you have low sales volume and sales tax liability, you can reach out to the Georgia Department of Revenue to request a quarterly or annual filing.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Georgia’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates

In Georgia, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of December, and the January 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until January 22nd, the following business day, to submit.

 

Monthly Prepayments

Businesses with a notable sales tax liability may need to make monthly prepayments ahead of their monthly return filings. The specifics of these prepayments depend on the business’s prior year’s tax liabilities.

If a dealer paid over $60,000 in taxes last year (not counting local sales taxes), they need to make a prepayment for the upcoming year. This prepayment is half of their average monthly tax from the previous year, adjusted if the tax rate changes.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Georgia, a few options are available:

  1. File online through Georgia’s Tax Center portal. You are required to file and pay electronically through this portal if you owe more than $500 for sales tax for any filing period.
  2. File by mail – See return here: Form ST-3
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

Georgia provides a 3% discount on the initial $3,000 of tax owed and a 0.5% discount on any amount beyond that.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, there are no planned sales tax holidays in Georgia.

 

Georgia Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Georgia generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Georgia:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Georgia or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Texas Sales Tax | TaxHero

Serving as a cornerstone of industry and travel in the Southwest, the Lone Star State stands out for its sprawling landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant economic scene. Yet, mastering the nuances of sales tax in Texas demands a comprehensive grasp of its statutes and guidelines.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Texas’ sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Texas’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Texas

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Texas.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Texas include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products (i.e., sample room), a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business. This includes ownership, usage, leases, or rents of tangible personal property in Texas.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus: An out-of-state seller may establish a taxable presence in Texas—if there is a significant ownership link with any entity in Texas that fulfills orders, shares a brand or product line, or conducts business activities that bolster the seller’s market within the state. This includes affiliates that manage distribution centers, conduct business under a similar name, or engage in activities on the seller’s behalf, such as handling returns.
  5. Presence at Trade Show: Out-of-state sellers attending trade shows in Texas for product promotion and order solicitation are considered to be conducting business in the state, thereby requiring them to collect Texas use tax on sales, regardless of where the orders are processed or fulfilled. This applies even if a single order is taken at a trade show, whether from Texas residents or non-residents.

To stay informed about the current criteria for establishing a physical sales tax nexus in Texas, take a look at the official regulations available right here!

 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning October 1, 2019, the threshold for economic nexus in Texas is $500,000 in gross revenue in the prior 12 months.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing economic sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Texas.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Texas Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Texas.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Texas, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

Services

In Texas, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services, advertising, and cleaning services, are subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are tax-exempt. For instance, non-taxable services are:

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is taxable as they are considered part of a data processing service.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are also taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Texas are taxable.

Sales tax is exempt if:

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Texas

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Texas, the next important step is getting your Texas Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a seller’s permit online through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Texas, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit. Texas sales tax permits renew automatically every year, so business owners don’t need to do it themselves. But, the permit only stays valid if you’re actively selling as a business.

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Texas, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the 01-339 Texas Sales and Use Tax Resale Certificate provided by Texas after you receive your sales tax permit. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Texas Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Texas is not a party to this program, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Texas

Sales Tax Computation

In Texas, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Texas Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Texas and sells to a customer in Houston, TX, with a ZIP code of 77002. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Texas
6.25%
County: Harris
0.00%
District: Downtown
1.00%
City: Houston
1.00%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
8.25%

Origin-based vs. Destination-based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Texas is an origin-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the seller’s location. That means for a Texas-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the seller when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Illinois to a customer in Houston, Texas, where you have nexus, you’d apply Houston’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Texas

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Texas sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Texas’ sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates

In Texas, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until May 21st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Quarterly/Monthly Prepayments

Businesses with a notable sales tax liability may need to make monthly/quarterly prepayments ahead of their monthly/quarterly return filings. The specifics of these prepayments depend on the business’s prior year’s tax liabilities.

If you pay your taxes monthly or quarterly, you can get a 1.25% discount for paying early. This is on top of the 0.5% discount you get for filing your taxes and payments on time.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Texas, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
  2. File by mail – Download a Texas Sales and Use Tax Return here.
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

In Texas, permitted sales taxpayers are eligible for a 0.5% discount on the tax amount they report and pay on time.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, the planned sales tax holidays in Texas are:

 
DATE TYPE ELIGIBLE MERCHANDISE
April 26-28, 2025 Emergency Preparedness

Various emergency preparedness supplies include:

  • Portable generators (less than $3,000)
  • Emergency ladders and hurricane shutters (less than $300)
  • First aid kits, batteries, axes, fuel containers, and light sources (less than $75)
May 24-26, 2025 Energy Star Appliance

Various Energy Star appliances, including:

  • Air conditioners (up to $6,000)
  • Dishwashers
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Refrigerators (up to $2,000)
  • Ceiling fans
May 24-26, 2025 Water-Efficiency

Various water-efficient products including:

  • Soakers or drip irrigation hoses.
  • Moisture control systems for sprinkler or irrigation systems.
  • Mulch.
  • Rain collection systems.
  • Soil and compost.
  • Plants, trees, and grasses.
  • Water-saving surfactants.
  • Permeable ground cover surfaces that allow water to reach water collection points.
August 8-10, 2025 Back-to-School
  • Clothing and footwear (less than $100). This excludes accessories, athletic or protective clothing, and rentals of clothing or footwear
  • Backpacks
  • School supplies (less than $100)

Texas Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Texas generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Texas:

Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Texas or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Michigan Sales Tax | TaxHero

Michigan, known for its breathtaking Great Lakes and diverse landscapes, offers abundant business prospects. However, unraveling the complexities of Michigan sales tax might prove more challenging than charting a course across its expansive lakes.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Michigan’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Michigan’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Michigan

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Michigan.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Michigan include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus or Click-through Nexus: You could trigger a physical nexus if you have affiliates, whether they operate online or in-person, who have collectively sold more than $10,000 worth of products for delivery in Michigan in the preceding 12-month period and your total sales in Michigan are more than $50,000.
  5. Presence at Trade Show: You must collect sales tax at Michigan trade shows if you are taking orders/sales or attending a trade show for longer than 10 days total each year.
 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning October 1, 2018, the threshold for economic nexus in Michigan is $100,000 in gross revenue or 200 transactions in the previous or current calendar year’s sales or prior 12 months.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for sales tax nexus requirements in Michigan.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Michigan Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Michigan.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Michigan, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In Michigan, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services and advertising, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. If a business offers repair, enhancement, or modification services for items owned by others, and also sells tangible products, it needs to get a sales tax license. Any item provided to the customer as part of the service or repair is seen as a retail sale and, therefore, is subject to sales tax.

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is not taxable in the state of Michigan.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are also not taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Michigan are not taxable if the seller:

Meanwhile, shipping and handling charges may be subject to sales and use taxes in the state of Michigan if:

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Michigan

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Michigan, the next important step is getting your Michigan Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Sales Tax License online through the Michigan Treasury Online or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Michigan, you have to renew your sales tax permit every year

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Michigan, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out Form 3372 – Michigan Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption provided by the State, or you can also fill out the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption if you would like to get sales tax exemption for multiple states simultaneously. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Michigan Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. Michigan has been a party to this program since October 1, 2005, meaning you may use your SST in this state.

Check with the Department of Treasury for the most current information on Michigan’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Michigan

Sales Tax Computation

In Michigan, the sales tax is made up of only the statewide sales tax. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to determine where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Michigan Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Michigan and sells to a customer in Detroit, Michigan, with a ZIP code of 48226. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Michigan
6.00%
County: Wayne
N/A
District: Eleventh
N/A
City: Detroit
N/A
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
6.00%
 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based 

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Michigan is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for a Michigan-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from California to a customer in Detroit, Michigan, where you have nexus, you’d apply Detroit’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Michigan

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Michigan sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually. 

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Michigan’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates 

In Michigan, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month for monthly and quarterly filers. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of January, and the February 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until February 21st, the following business day, to submit.

If you’re an annual filer, the due date for remittance falls on February 28 (or February 29 if a leap year) following the reported tax year.

 

Accelerated Filing Requirements

Taxpayers whose average sales or use tax annually is an average of $720,000 are required to remit on an accelerated schedule of about 75% of the total tax liability on or before the 20th day of the current month. For more detailed information regarding the accelerated EFT filing requirements, check out the Michigan Department of Treasury.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Michigan, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Michigan website portal.
  2. File by mail – Form 5080 (monthly/quarterly filers) or Form 5082 (annual filers)
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.
 

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

Michigan’s timely filing discount amount is determined using specific formulas based on the tax due. The maximum discounts available range from $15,000 to $20,000, depending on the filing period.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, there are no planned sales tax holidays in Michigan.

 

Michigan Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Michigan generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Michigan:

Have any questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Michigan or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Nevada Sales Tax | TaxHero

Nevada, often celebrated for its lively cities and vast deserts, stands as a distinct hub for commerce and innovation. And if you plan on establishing your business in the Silver State, understanding sales tax in Nevada is crucial for navigating its unique business landscape.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Nevada’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Nevada’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Nevada

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Nevada.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Nevada include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business. 
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus or Click-through Nexus: You could trigger a physical nexus if you have affiliates, whether they operate online or in-person, who have collectively sold more than $10,000 worth of products for delivery in Nevada in the last four quarterly periods.
  5. Presence at Trade Show: You must collect sales tax at Nevada trade shows if you made sales at one or two events during a 12-month period.
 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning October 1, 2018, the threshold for economic nexus in Nevada is $100,000 in gross revenue or 200 transactions in the previous or current calendar year’s sales.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for sales tax nexus requirements in Nevada.

 

Nevada Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Nevada.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Nevada, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In Nevada, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services, advertising, and cleaning services, are not subject to sales tax if separately stated on an invoice.

When a service also includes some tangible goods or property, the service portion can still be exempt from sales tax if two conditions are met:

  1. The transaction is fundamentally for the service. Any physical property involved should be minor and non-essential to providing the service.
  2. The invoice separately lists the charge for the service itself, apart from any goods or materials charges.

If the service fees are broken out on their own line, only those goods/property charges would be taxable. The service itself would qualify for sales tax exemption.

Sales tax may apply to the full combined amount if the invoice lumps everything into one blended total without separating the service cost. So, the key is itemizing the service fees independently to exclude them from sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance:

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is not taxable in the state of Nevada.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are also not taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Nevada are not taxable when you buy a physical item, and the shipping cost is listed separately on the bill. But, if there are extra services like packing or handling, you still have to pay tax on those, even if they’re listed separately. Also, any shipping costs that happened before you bought the item (like getting it to the store) are taxable. These costs might be added to the item’s price or shown separately on your bill.

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Nevada

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Nevada, the next important step is getting your Nevada Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Certificate of Authority online through the Nevada Tax Center or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is a $15 fee per location to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Nevada, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit. However, if you open a business in a new location, you must apply for another sales tax permit.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Nevada, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items. 

You can fill out the Tax-C006 Nevada Resale Certificate form provided by the Nevada Department of Taxation after you receive your sales tax permit.

You can also fill out theStreamlined Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption if you would like to get sales tax exemption for multiple states simultaneously. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Nevada Resale Certificate for your Business

 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. Nevada has been a party to this program since April 1, 2008, meaning it follows the uniform rules and definitions established by SST.

Check with the Nevada Department of Taxation for the most current information on Nevada’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Nevada

Sales Tax Computation

In Nevada, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Nevada Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Pennsylvania and sells to a customer in Las Vegas, Nevada, with a ZIP code of 89032. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Nevada
6.850%
County: Clark
1.525%
District: Fourth
0.000%
City: Las Vegas
0.000%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
8.375%
 
 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based 

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Nevada is a destination-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the buyer’s location. That means for a Nevada-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the buyer when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Pennsylvania to a customer in Las Vegas, Nevada, where you have nexus, you’d apply Las Vegas’ sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Nevada

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Nevada sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually. By default, all businesses are required to file sales tax returns monthly. However:

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Nevada’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates 

In Nevada, the due date falls on the last day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 28th (or 29th if it’s a leap year) for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of April, and the May 31st deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until June 1st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Nevada, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Nevada Tax Center.
  2. File by mail – Fill out the Form TXR-01.01c and file and pay through mail
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.
 

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly. Nevada’s timely filing discount is an uncapped 0.25% discount of the total sales tax due.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, here is the planned sales tax holiday in Nevada: 

 

Nevada Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Nevada generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Nevada:

 

Have any questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Nevada or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Virginia Sales Tax | TaxHero

Nestled in the heart of the East Coast, Virginia, also known as the Old Dominion, stands as a unique hub where history, culture, and business intersect. Understanding the particular rules and regulations of sales and use tax in Virginia is key to navigating its intricate business landscape.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Old Dominion State’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Virginia’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Virginia

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Virginia.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Virginia include:

  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.
  4. Affiliate Nexus: You could trigger a physical nexus if you have affiliates, whether they operate online or in-person, who maintains a distribution center, warehouse, fulfillment center, office, or similar location in Virginia that facilitates the delivery of tangible personal property to its customers.
  5. Advertising in newspapers or other periodicals printed and published in Virginia: This includes billboards, posters, or other materials distributed by any means other than U.S. mail.
  6. Made more than 12 deliveries of merchandise in a year in Virginia, not by a common carrier.
  7. Ownership of real or personal property in Virginia, including leased property.
 

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning July 1, 2019, the threshold for economic nexus in Virginia is $100,000 in gross revenue or 200 transactions in the previous or current calendar year’s sales or prior 12 months.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the governing laws for economic sales tax nexus requirements in Virginia.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Virginia Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Virginia.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Virginia, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

 

Services

In Virginia, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services, clothing alterations, and repair services, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. If a business offers services that include creating or manufacturing a tangible personal product, it is seen as a retail sale and, therefore, is subject to sales tax.

 

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS)/Digital Products

SaaS is not taxable in the state of Virginia.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps) are also not taxable.

Shipping/Handling

Shipping charges in the state of Virginia are not taxable. However, the handling charge is taxable as it’s not specifically excluded from the definition of “sales price.”

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Virginia

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Virginia, the next important step is getting your Virginia Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit.

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Retail Sales and Use Tax Permit online through the Virginia Department of Taxation or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal

In Virginia, you don’t have to renew your sales tax permit.

 

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Virginia, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out Form ST-10 – Commonwealth of Virginia Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption after you receive your sales tax permit. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Virginia Resale Certificate for your Business 

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Virginia is not a party to this program, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations.

Check with the Virginia Department of Taxation for the most current information on Virginia’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Virginia

Sales Tax Computation

In Virginia, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Virginia Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Virginia and sells to a customer in Richmond, VA, with a ZIP code of 23237. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Virginia
4.30%
County: Chesterfield
1.70%
District: Seventh
0.00%
City: Richmond
0.00%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
6.00%
 

Origin-based vs. Destination-based 

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Virginia is an origin-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the seller’s location. That means for a Virginia-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the location of the seller when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from New York to a customer in Richmond, Virginia, where you have nexus, you’d apply Richmond’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Virginia

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Virginia sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly or quarterly. If you have low sales volume and sales tax liability, you can reach out to the Virginia Department of Taxation to request a quarterly filing.

 

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Virginia sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates 

In Virginia, the due date falls on the 20th day of the following month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers.

However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. For instance, if you’re a monthly filer and filing sales tax for the month of January, and the February 20th deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’ll have until February 21st, the following business day, to submit.

 

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Virginia, a few options are available:

  1. File online through the Business Online Services Account.
  2. File through eforms provided by Virgina or web upload service.
  3. File by mail – Form ST-9 for in-state dealers based on the seller’s location, and Form ST-8 for out-of-state dealers based on the buyer’s location.
  4. File with TaxHero TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.
 

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

Virginia’s timely filing discount is in the form of a deduction, with the amount determined using specific formulas based on the sales tax due. The maximum discounts available range from 0.80% to 1.60%, depending on the total sales tax due.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, the planned sales tax holidays in Virginia are on August 1-3, 2025:

 

Virginia Sales Tax Penalties

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Virginia generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Virginia:

 

Have any questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Virginia or any state!

Ultimate Guide to Pennsylvania Sales Tax | TaxHero

If you’re doing business in Pennsylvania, home to the iconic Liberty Bell and beautiful Amish landscapes, there’s a lot to enjoy. But getting a handle on the state’s sales tax? It’s not always easy.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Pennsylvania’s sales tax, from determining the right sales tax rates to understanding exemptions and filing processes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle Pennsylvania’s sales tax with confidence and ease.

 

Sales Tax Nexus in Pennsylvania

When a business creates either a physical or economic nexus, it is required to collect sales tax in Pennsylvania.

 

Physical Nexus

A physical nexus means having a significant physical presence or engaging in enough activities within a state to require the collection and payment of sales tax. The factors that determine a physical nexus in Pennsylvania include:

 
  1. Physical Location: This includes having an office, a place for distribution, sales, or showcasing products, a warehouse or storage facility, or any other place where you conduct business. This also includes securing a lease for property in the state.
  2. Inventory in the State: This covers situations where you store your products within the state, even if it’s done through a third-party fulfillment center or 3PL (like Amazon FBA) or an online marketplace.
  3. Employees, independent contractors, agents, or other representatives operating on your behalf.

To stay informed about the current criteria for establishing a physical sales tax nexus in Pennsylvania, take a look at the official regulations available right here!

Economic Nexus

States have established regulations to collect sales tax from out-of-state sellers who meet certain revenue and/or transaction thresholds. This rule is known as economic nexus.

Beginning July 1, 2019, the threshold for economic nexus in Pennsylvania is $100,000 in gross revenue on the previous calendar year.

While the nexus criteria mentioned above generally apply to most businesses, additional methods exist for establishing economic sales tax nexus. To access a comprehensive list of these rules, please refer to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.

Connect with TaxHero

 

Pennsylvania Sales Tax on Goods and Services

One of the first things you need to know is whether the goods you’re selling or services you’re offering are taxable in Pennsylvania.

 

Tangible Products

Almost all goods are taxable in Pennsylvania, including:

The goods that are exempt from sales tax are:

Services

In Pennsylvania, the majority of service-based transactions, such as professional services, advertising, and laundry and dry cleaning services, are not subject to sales tax.

However, there are specific situations where certain services are taxable. For instance, taxable services are:

Software-As-A-Service (SaaS) / Digital Products

SaaS is taxable in the state of Pennsylvania. If you’re using computer software over the internet (often called cloud computing or SaaS) and you’re in Pennsylvania, you’ll have to pay sales tax. This is because Pennsylvania considers software as a physical thing, even if you’re just accessing it online. So, if you’re a company offering such software, you’ll need to charge sales tax to users in Pennsylvania.

Digital products (i.e., ebooks, downloadable video content, mobile apps, canned software) are also taxable.

 

Shipping/Handling

Shipping and handling charges in the state of Pennsylvania are taxable. But if the item you’re purchasing is tax-exempt, you may not be required to pay sales tax. 

 

Sales Tax Permits and Licenses in Pennsylvania

Now that you’ve got a handle on when sales tax nexus applies and which products are taxable in Pennsylvania, the next important step is getting your Pennsylvania Seller’s Permit, also known as a sales tax permit. 

 

Seller’s Permit

You can register for a Sales, Use, and Hotel Occupancy Retail Tax License online through the myPATH Pennsylvania Tax Hub or follow our detailed step-by-step guide for assistance.

Ensure you have specific information on hand when registering for a seller’s permit, including, but not limited to:

Registration fee

There is no fee to register for a sales tax permit.

Renewal 

In Pennsylvania, you have to renew your sales tax permit every 5 years

Resale Certificate

A resale certificate is a document that allows businesses to buy products without paying sales tax on them, as long as they plan to resell those items to customers, who will then pay the tax. As a seller, you can also accept resale certificates from others looking to buy for resale.

In Pennsylvania, sellers use resale certificates to buy goods from their suppliers that they intend to resell. The issuance of the certificates is always done in good faith that the seller would report tax on the final sale of the items.

You can fill out the form provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue or visit the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue website for more information about filling out the resale certificate. If you don’t want the hassle of registering, sign up for our all-inclusive service that includes sales tax registration.

Need help? Read our blog: How to Get a Pennsylvania Resale Certificate for your Business

Streamlined Sales Tax (SST)

The Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) is an initiative to simplify and standardize sales tax regulations across multiple states. However, Pennsylvania is not a party to this program, meaning it does not follow the uniform rules and definitions established by SST but has its own sales tax regulations.

Check with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for the most current information on Pennsylvania’s participation in the Streamlined Sales Tax initiative.

 

Calculating and Collecting Sales Tax in Pennsylvania

Sales Tax Computation

In Pennsylvania, sales tax isn’t just one simple rate; it’s a combination of state and local taxes. To figure out the total sales tax for your calculation, you’ll need to add up the rates for the state, county, and city (if applicable) where your transaction occurs. Use TaxHero’s Pennsylvania Sales Tax Calculator to compute for sales tax.

Here’s an example. Suppose an out-of-state seller satisfies the economic nexus criteria in Pennsylvania and sells to a customer in Pittsburgh, PA, with a ZIP code of 15219. In that case, the seller has to charge the customer a total sales tax, which can be broken down as follows:

SALES TAX FORMULA RATE
State: Pennsylvania
6.00%
County: Allegheny
1.00%
District: Fifth District
0.00%
City: Pittsburgh
0.00%
Combined Sales Tax Rate =
7.00%
 

 

Origin-based vs. Destination-Based

When making in-state sales, it is important to determine if you are located in an origin-based or destination-based state to figure out what rate to charge for sales tax.

Pennsylvania is an origin-based state, meaning sales tax is determined based on the seller’s location. That means for a Pennsylvania-based seller, sales tax is generally based on the seller’s location when selling within the state.

For out-of-state or remote sellers, the sales tax rate is always determined by the buyer’s location. For instance, if you’re selling a product from Texas to a customer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where you have nexus, you’d apply Philadephia’s sales tax rate to that sale.

To make life easier, consider using sales tax software or consulting a tax professional, like TaxHero, to ensure accurate tax calculations and collections. Understanding these tax rules helps you stay compliant, whether you’re in-state or out-of-state.

 

Filing and Remitting Sales Tax Returns in Pennsylvania

The next step after collection is filing and remitting your Pennsylvania sales tax returns. Filing and remittance can vary in frequency, typically monthly, quarterly, or annually based on the volume of sales.

Here is the sales tax filing frequency for Pennsylvania:

Please note that these thresholds are subject to change, so it’s essential to verify the current requirements with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Additionally, your specific situation, including the nature of your business and sales volume, may affect your filing frequency.

It’s crucial to keep accurate records of your sales and tax collections and adhere to the filing schedule set by the state to remain compliant with Pennsylvania’s sales tax regulations.

 

Due Dates 

In Pennsylvania, the due date falls on the 20th day of the month. For instance, sales tax collected in January is due by February 20th for monthly filers. However, if this day is a holiday, weekend, or in the rare occurrence of a natural disaster, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day.

Another example is when you’re filing sales tax quarterly for the months of April through June, and the July 31st deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, you’d need to submit by the next business day, which would be August 1.

 

Monthly Prepayments

Businesses with a notable sales tax liability may need to make monthly prepayments ahead of their monthly return filings. The specifics of these so-called Accelerated Sales Tax (AST) Prepayments depend on the business’s prior year’s tax liabilities.

AST Level 1 (Tax Liability between $25,000 and $100,000 from the previous year’s third quarter): Businesses can choose between two prepayment calculation methods:

AST Level 2 (Tax Liability of $100,000 or more from the previous year’s third quarter): Businesses must remit 50% of the tax liability from the same month of the previous year. No alternate calculation method is available for this level.

Filing Sales Tax Returns

To file your sales tax return for Pennsylvania, a few options are available:

  1. File online through Pennsylvania’s website portal.
  2. File by calling 1-800-748-8299 if you don’t have access to a computer
  3. File with TaxHero – Let TaxHero take care of it so you don’t have to worry about missing a payment or return.

Timely Filing Discount

Some states offer a discount to businesses for collecting, filing, and remitting sales tax on time as an incentive to process sales taxes promptly.

Starting with returns ending after August 1, 2016, the discount vendors receive for on-time filings and payments has been capped. Monthly filers can get the lower of $25 or 1% of the tax they collect. Quarterly filers can get up to $75 or 1% of their collected tax. And for those filing every six months, the limit is $150 or 1% of the tax collected. This caps the annual discount at $300 for on-time submissions.

 

Sales Tax Holiday

Currently, for 2025, there are no planned sales tax holidays in Pennsylvania.

 

Sales Tax Penalties in Pennsylvania

Like in most states, sales tax is a big part of how Pennsylvania generates revenue. Thus, maintaining compliance with sales tax regulations is of utmost importance. Failure to do so can lead to consequences and sales tax penalties. Therefore, it is crucial always to ensure you are up-to-date in filing, collecting, and remitting sales tax to the state.

Here are the specific penalties for non-compliance with sales tax regulations in Pennsylvania:

 
Questions? Connect with TaxHero today for a free sales tax consultation about your business in Pennsylvania or any state!