Question: How Do I Register to Collect Sales Tax in My State?
In order to sell taxable products and services in your state, you must register as a seller with your state's sales taxing agency ( or other name). While the specific requirements vary by state, this article will give you the basics you need in order to complete the registration.
Answer:
Most states allow you to file your application for a seller's permit (or other sales tax registration) and pay online. Go to the website of your State Department of Revenue (or other designation) to find the online link.
Here are some common questions you will be asked and information you will need to provide to complete the sales tax registration in your state:
- Your business name and any previous business entity, if you bought your business from someone else
- Your Employer ID Number (federal business tax ID)
- Calendar quarters your business operates, if your business is seasonal
- The legal form of your business and the date it was established
- The starting date for collecting sales tax in your state
- The type of products or services to be sold
- The amount of sales tax you estimate you will collect (your filing frequency is based on this amount)
- If you have more than one location, whether you will be filing consolidated returns
You may also be required to submit documents for verification purposes:
- Your social security number (corporate officers excluded)
- A photocopy of your driver license
- The name and location of a bank where you have an account
- Names of suppliers
- Name of person maintaining your account
- Names and address of a personal reference.
Some states charge a fee for seller's registration; others do not. The questions above appear to be common; your state may ask additional questions.
