E-COM Sales Tax

This conversation discusses Voluntary Disclosure Agreements (VDAs) as a way for businesses to come into compliance with state sales tax requirements. The conversation covers the benefits of VDAs, why businesses should voluntarily disclose sales tax, and the availability of voluntary disclosure programs in every state. The main focus is on the steps involved in the VDA process, including contacting the state, waiting for a response, submitting information, and signing the VDA agreement. This conversation discusses the process of entering into a Voluntary Disclosure Agreement (VDA) with a state tax authority. The conversation covers the steps involved in the VDA process, including the initial request, state response, signing the agreement, providing data to the state, reviewing the tax bill, and making the payment. The conversation also highlights cautionary tales and best practices for successfully navigating the VDA process. The hosts emphasize the importance of working with a tax professional and provide contact information for further assistance.Takeaways - Voluntary Disclosure Agreements (VDAs) allow businesses to come into compliance with state sales tax requirements. - VDAs offer benefits such as waiving historical tax obligations, penalties, and interest. - Every state has some form of voluntary disclosure program. - The VDA process involves contacting the state, waiting for a response, submitting information, and signing the VDA agreement. The VDA process involves several steps, including the initial request, state response, signing the agreement, providing data, reviewing the tax bill, and making the payment. - It is crucial to work with a tax professional who can guide you through the VDA process and ensure compliance with state requirements.Caution should be exercised when entering into payment agreements, as failure to comply with the terms may result in additional penalties and interest. - Proper record-keeping and understanding the taxability of sales are essential for a successful VDA process.Submitting a VDA letter anonymously through a tax professional can help maintain confidentiality and avoid potential issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction to VDAs03:07 Benefits of VDAs06:57 Why Voluntarily Disclose Sales Tax10:36 Voluntary Disclosure Programs in Every State15:25 Steps of the VDA Process24:46 Signing the VDA Agreement26:15 Introduction to Voluntary Disclosure Agreements (VDA)27:02 Step 1: Initial Request27:46 Step 2: State Response28:11 Step 3: Respond to the State's Response29:06 Step 4: Sign and Countersign the Agreement29:39 Step 5: Provide Data to the State31:24 Step 6: State Review and Tax Bill34:05 Step 7: Pay the Tax Bill36:23 Cautionary Tales and Best Practices45:27 Submitting a VDA48:03 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this conversation we discuss amnesty programs, non-compliance, and remedies for businesses that need to become compliant with sales tax regulations. We emphasize the importance of understanding nexus and taxability, as well as seeking second opinions to avoid bad advice. We explore the pros and cons of registration and voluntary disclosure agreements as methods for achieving compliance. Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of educational and informative calls to help businesses make informed decisions and find peace of mind in their sales tax compliance.TakeawaysAmnesty programs that offer limited look back periods and waive penalties and interest are not commonly seen in the current sales tax landscape.Businesses often find themselves in non-compliant situations due to lack of awareness or denial of their sales tax responsibilities.The two main remedies for non-compliance are registration and participation in voluntary disclosure agreements.It is important to seek second opinions and collaborate with trusted advisors to avoid bad advice and make informed decisions.Facing compliance and getting a second opinion can help businesses achieve peace of mind and mitigate potential liabilities.Chapters00:00Amnesty Programs and Limited Look Back06:22Recognizing Non-Compliance and Bad Advice08:23Understanding Nexus and Taxability14:43Remedies for Non-Compliance: Registration and Voluntary Disclosure Agreements25:17Avoiding Bad Advice and Seeking Second Opinions28:20The Importance of Facing Compliance and Getting a Second Opinion32:38Choosing Between Voluntary Disclosure Agreements and Registration33:06Educational and Informative What's Next Calls34:09Promoting Peace of Mind and Contacting The Sales Tax People

In this conversation, Ryan Johnson, Jason Parr, and Paul Johnson discuss the complexities of sales tax and the importance of compliance. They emphasize the need for businesses to understand their sales tax responsibility and the various terms and concepts related to sales tax, such as nexus and taxability. The conversation highlights the significance of conducting a thorough risk analysis and collaborating with experts to ensure compliance. The speakers also discuss the different remedies available for businesses to address sales tax liabilities, including voluntary disclosure agreements. They stress the value of seeking second opinions and collaborating with professionals to make informed decisions. The conversation concludes with a reminder of the resources available on the Peisner Johnson website and the importance of educating businesses about sales tax.Takeaways: - Understanding sales tax compliance is crucial for businesses to avoid penalties and liabilities. - Conducting a thorough risk analysis and collaborating with experts can help businesses determine their sales tax responsibility. - Properly understanding terms like nexus and taxability is essential for accurate compliance. - Businesses should consider different remedies, such as voluntary disclosure agreements, to address sales tax liabilities.Chapters:00:00Introduction and New Year's Update01:05The Complexity of Sales Tax02:23Getting Started with Sales Tax Compliance03:19Identifying Sales Tax Responsibility04:46Understanding Nexus and Risk Analysis08:01The Importance of Proper Nexus Study10:25Taxability and Risk Analysis13:48Remedies for Sales Tax Compliance17:12Amnesty Programs and Second Opinions19:02Collaboration and Peace of Mind23:40The Importance of Nexus Analysis25:20Educating Businesses for Informed Decisions26:09Resources and Conclusion

SummaryIn this conversation, Ryan Johnson, Jason Parr, and Paul Johnson discuss the process of becoming sales tax compliant. They cover topics such as understanding  what is covered in sales tax compliance, recognizing the need for compliance, conducting a risk analysis, implementing compliance measures, considering the timeline for implementation, implementing an automated solution, simultaneously registering and implementing, switching providers and outsourcing, and more.If you would like to discuss what is next for you with sales tax compliance come have a chat with us: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/TakeawaysSales tax compliance involves understanding the changing landscape of sales tax laws and regulations.Recognizing the need for sales tax compliance is the first step in the process.Conducting a risk analysis helps identify the states where you have a responsibility to collect and remit sales tax.Implementing sales tax compliance measures can be done through a DIY approach or by outsourcing to a professional service provider.The timeline for implementation depends on the complexity of your business and the resources available.Implementing an automated solution for sales tax compliance can streamline the process and ensure accurate tax collection.Simultaneously registering and implementing compliance measures is recommended to avoid potential liabilities.Switching providers or outsourcing sales tax compliance can provide greater peace of mind and efficiency.It is important to regularly review and update your sales tax compliance measures to stay compliant with changing laws and regulations.Chapters00:00Introduction and Holiday Banter03:41Understanding Sales Tax Compliance08:09Recognizing the Need for Sales Tax Compliance10:40Conducting a Risk Analysis12:05Implementing Sales Tax Compliance16:48Considering the Timeline for Implementation20:25Implementing an Automated Solution25:18Simultaneously Registering and Implementing28:37Switching Providers and Outsourcing36:38Summary and Call to Action

In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss sales tax planning for 2024. They emphasize the importance of including sales tax in overall tax planning strategies and highlight how sales tax can significantly impact a business's financial success. The conversation covers topics such as nexus and business operations, reviewing nexus for the next year, taxability of goods and services, exemption certificates, and choosing the right sales tax return process. The hosts provide valuable insights and encourage listeners to reach out for further assistance.Takeaways - Sales tax planning is crucial for businesses to ensure financial success and compliance. - Businesses should regularly review their nexus and consider the impact of their operations on sales tax obligations. - Understanding the taxability of goods and services is essential to avoid under or overtaxing customers. - Managing exemption certificates effectively can help businesses avoid audit issues. - Choosing the right sales tax return process can simplify compliance and reduce frustration.Chapters00:00Introduction and Podcast Structure00:50Importance of Sales Tax Planning02:51Nexus and Business Operations06:14Reviewing Nexus and Planning for the Next Year08:21Taxability of Goods and Services12:02Exemption Certificates13:09Choosing the Right Sales Tax Return Process20:58Conclusion and Contact Information

Young is a highly accomplished entrepreneur and coach with a remarkable track record spanning over 20 years. After working with brands such as Starbucks, Apple, Philz, and Limelight- Young has mastered helping business owners to reach their first million in annual revenue. In addition to his coaching services, Young has developed the Owners Club, an exclusive community designed for ambitious and growth-minded business owners. Owners Club serves as a platform for these individuals to connect, collaborate, and elevate their businesses to new heights.While building his own businesses, Young adheres to his Owners Manual framework, which acts as a blueprint for achieving financial freedom and creating a life that prioritizes quality time with family.To find out more about Young Han and Owner's Club visit his website: www.owners.club

In this podcast episode, we discuss two topics related to sales tax filing and notices. The first topic revolves around what to do if a business has had zero sales. We emphasize that regardless of sales volume, registered taxpayers are required to file returns. Failure to file can lead to penalties, even for zero sales.The second topic we discuss focuses on handling notices from tax authorities, especially in cases where businesses receive notices despite filing returns correctly. We stress the importance of not ignoring these notices. Even if the business has filed on time, states might issue automated notices due to various reasons like processing delays. Ignoring notices can lead to complications and additional penalties.We then share insights on how to address notices, including providing necessary documentation and communicating with tax authorities promptly. We also touch on occasional filing statuses in certain states, where businesses only file returns when tax is due. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize the significance of proactive communication with tax authorities and not disregarding any notices, even for zero sales, to maintain compliance and avoid unnecessary penalties.If you would like to submit a notice to try and stump us sent it to info@peisnerjohnson.com

On this episode of the SALTcast, We discuss a controversial issue regarding Massachusetts attempting to retroactively collect sales tax from out-of-state retailers. They delve into the background of the problem, detailing how certain states passed legislation in 2017 in anticipation of the Wayfair decision, hoping to require out-of-state sellers to collect sales tax. Following the Supreme Court's decision in 2018, several states, including Massachusetts, sought to enforce these laws retroactively, leading to legal challenges from companies. The Jason and Paul express their concerns about the fairness and constitutionality of this approach, highlighting the complexities and potential financial implications for businesses. They also touch upon Massachusetts' creative methods to increase tax revenues, including taxing digital products and intangibles, and ponder the possibility of affected companies receiving refunds if the legal challenges succeed. If you would like assistance in sales tax compliance please visit us here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Exploring Peisner Johnson's Values and PurposeJason has been with Peisner Johnson for over 25 years.Jason explains his journey at the company and how his "why" has evolved over time.The core value of "we over me" is discussed, emphasizing building relationships over transactions.The importance of helping people and providing peace of mind regarding sales tax issues is highlighted.Danny shares his experience and how Peisner Johnson assists businesses in managing sales tax complexities.The concept that sales tax can affect various aspects of a business and individual well-being is emphasized.Collaboration and Confidence BuildingThe principle of "collaboration builds confidence" is introduced.Jason talks about how collaborating with trusted individuals enhances decision-making and confidence.The "What's Next Calls" are explained as free consultations to educate and provide confidence to clients.Danny shares an example of how collaboration and informed decision-making helped a complex business situation.Finding the intersection between perfect compliance and practicality is emphasized.The value of information and sales tax consulting in providing peace of mind is discussed.Authenticity and Abundance MentalityThe authenticity of Peisner Johnson's approach is highlighted.We emphasize our commitment to helping people over a transaction-focused approach.An abundance mentality is discussed, focusing on the belief that helping others will ultimately benefit the company.The impact of Peisner Johnson's services on businesses and individuals facing sales tax challenges is emphasized.You can learn more about us by visiting our website https://www.peisnerjohnson.com/

In this podcast episode, Paul Johnson and Ryan Johnson discuss the complexities of resale certificates and sales tax regulations across different states. They highlight the variations in rules and requirements, emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific regulations in each state. The conversation covers topics such as when and how to issue resale certificates, the significance of nexus, and the potential challenges faced by drop shippers. Paul and Ryan also mention the need for businesses to stay organized and up-to-date with resale certificates to avoid compliance issues. They caution against accepting incomplete or invalid certificates and stress the importance of collaboration and seeking professional advice when navigating these complexities.As we discussed in the episode here is the Multi-Jursidictional Resale Certificate link: https://www.mtc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Unif-Resale-Cert-revised-10-14-22.pdf

In this podcast episode, we discuss the complexities of rentals and leases, particularly in relation to sales tax. We cover various aspects of this topic, including different types of rentals (e.g., property, clothing, cars), the complexities of sales tax laws across different states, and the unique considerations for lessors.Key points discussed include:The variety of rentals and leases, from short-term to long-term, and the different tax implications they may have.The complexity of sales tax laws in different states, including the options for lessors to pay tax upfront or based on lease flow or payments.Different types of leases, such as financing leases and capital leases, and how they can affect tax obligations.The importance of understanding property tax for lessors and how it relates to their inventory of leased items.We emphasize the need for businesses to be aware of their tax obligations when engaging in rentals and leases, including considering physical nexus, the base for tax calculation, and the specific tax rates in different states. They also touch on the issue of double taxation in vehicle leasing and private party transactions.Overall, the podcast highlights the complexity of rental and lease taxation, with a focus on providing valuable insights and considerations for businesses. We encourage listeners to schedule a "What's Next Call" for personalized guidance on their specific tax situations.

Navigating the ever-changing landscape of sales tax compliance can be a challenging endeavor for businesses. As sales patterns evolve and business circumstances change, it's crucial to stay on top of your sales tax obligations, even when you no longer meet the criteria for nexus. This is where Peisner Johnson comes in. With expert guidance and a personalized approach, Peisner Johnson can assist you in understanding and managing trailing nexus, ensuring your compliance with sales tax laws.Here are some questions we cover in this episode:What is Trailing Nexus?How Long Does Trailing Nexus Last?When Can I Cancel My Sales Tax Registration?What About Online Sellers? How Do I Know If My Business Has Trailing Nexus?If you have questions regarding your business and whether or not you should be register let's chat here: https://www.peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

In this podcast episode we, Ryan Johnson, Danny Wright, and Paul Johnson discuss the compliance requirements for non-US businesses operating in the United States. The conversation touches on various aspects related to tax compliance, especially for foreign sellers. We delve into the concept of nexus, which triggers a business's obligation to collect and remit sales tax in a state. We discuss potential roadblocks and challenges foreign businesses may face when trying to become compliant in the US.While foreign businesses don't necessarily need to set up an LLC or a corporation within a US state to establish tax compliance, having a US bank account could be necessary to facilitate transactions and payments to the states. We highlight scenarios where a foreign business might want to set up a US entity, such as when dealing with suppliers or vendors that require it for partnership purposes.Our conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the practical implications of compliance, including administrative burdens and costs. We share real-life examples of situations where foreign businesses had to deal with compliance issues, including the complexities of managing sales tax exemptions, working with vendors, and dealing with state audits. We offer insights and solutions to help foreign businesses navigate these challenges and find the best path to compliance.If you are a business that is located outside of the United States but are running into sales tax compliance issues you can schedule a call with us here: https://www.peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Just about a year ago Colorado implemented their "Retail Delivery Fee." Now with Minnesota ready to implement their own retail delivery fee we ask the question, "where does this end?" The other question we have is, do states really have the authority to impose this fee on businesses? We explore these and other questions in Today's episode.If you have questions about proper compliance to this fee or other sales tax related questions do not hesitate to reach out to us by booking a call with us here. https://www.peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Diane L. Yetter (www.linkedin.com/in/dianeyetter) is the “Sales Tax Nerd ® ”. She is a strategist, advisor, speaker, and author in the field of sales and use tax. She is the president and founder of YETTER Tax, a sales tax consulting and tax technology firm. She is also the founder of The Sales Tax Institute. Diane works with clients of all sizes and in a myriad of industries to deliver sales tax services ranging from tax technology to tax policy, planning, and training. She also regularly partners with other advisors to help them serve their clients. As a speaker, Diane is frequently asked to present to industry groups concerning sales and use tax issues. As an author, Diane regularly contributes to various publications and has published three books and numerous articles concerning sales and use tax issues. She is also the author of the US Sales Tax Chapter for the IBFD VAT Worldwide Research Database. Diane was invited to testify before the Senate Committee on Finance regarding the impact of the Wayfair decision on small businesses and remote sellers. She has also appeared as an expert witness in legal matters and litigations. Diane was named in Accounting Today's 100 Most Influential People in Accounting eight times between 2011 and 2022. As an entrepreneur, she was honored as Woman Business Owner of the Year 2020 by the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Chicago Chapter. Her Twitter handle @SalesTaxInst has been one of Forbes's Top 100 Tax Twitter Handles and @YetterTax is in the Accounting social media leaders. She also sits on the Avalara Accounting Meta Influencers Roundtable. Diane earned a BS in accounting and business administration from the University of Kansas in 1985 and a MS in taxation from DePaul University in 1994. Prior to founding the company, Diane was a state and local tax manager in the Chicago office of Arthur Andersen LLP, the sales and use tax director for the Quaker Oats Company, and a sales and use tax auditor for the Kansas Department of Revenue.As announced during the podcast, The Sales Tax Institute would love to offer a 10% discount to the SALTcast community to join the Sales Tax Nerd Community. To find out more about the Community please visit https://www.salestaxinstitute.com/sales-tax-education/sales-tax-nerd-community-membership and if you want to join, enter discount code SALTcast10 on the order form to receive 10% off.

When it comes to helping your clients with sales tax, you may find yourself looking for direction and answers. What better people to turn to than the “Sales Tax People”? Here are the top 6 benefits you will find partnering with Peisner Johnson. Since July 2018, the landscape of sales tax has changed drastically. The United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of South Dakota v. Wayfair. With that, companies across the country saw their nexus footprint change. Every state started looking less at where businesses operate from a physical standpoint and more on where customers are located and where products and services are being sold to.

Picture this. You're strolling through the labyrinth of sales tax laws in the United States, and suddenly you come across five states that hit like a cool breeze on a hot summer day: the NOMAD states.These states, devotedly referred to as NOMAD (New Hampshire, Oregon, Montana, Alaska, and Delaware), have something unique to offer—they don't impose any state sales tax. You read that right, no state sales tax. It's like a dream come true, giving you a reason to rest easy at night.However, before you become too complacent, keep in mind that there are always nuances to consider when it comes to sales tax. While these NOMAD states may not impose state-wide sales tax, it's crucial to remember that the government still requires revenue to maintain smooth operations.So, where does this revenue come from? The NOMAD states have their own compensatory methods for the lack of state sales tax revenue. They frequently depend on higher business, income, or excise taxes compared to states with a state sales tax. And then there are local jurisdictional sales tax nuances to be aware of.To ensure clarity, let's delve a little deeper into these states and their unique tax structures.

Studies show that most companies aren't happy with their current sales tax process. It doesn't have to be like that. You can have an exceptional experience with outsourcing your sales tax process and we can prove it. Here are the top benefits of choosing Peisner Johnson.Our Core Beliefs “We over me.”We believe when you help others, you help yourself. This has driven us to keep a ‘We over Me' mentality across everything we do. This makes the work we do more than just figuring out sales taxes. We are here to help you, however that may be. We understand the inevitable nature of sales taxes and ultimately, we want you to have the peace of mind that comes from knowing what your options are.

Managing sales and use tax obligations is no easy task. It requires careful attention to detail, a deep understanding of complex rules and regulations, and a significant investment of time and resources. Yet, despite the challenges, many businesses continue to handle these obligations in-house. In fact, most companies still manage various aspects of sales tax internally.So, why do businesses choose to shoulder this burden themselves? There are several reasons, ranging from a lack of trust in external partners to a desire to maintain control over critical financial processes. However, it's essential to recognize that the right sales tax compliance experts can alleviate these concerns and become trusted partners, reducing risk and liability.But first things first. Let's talk about what sales tax compliance is. 

Have you ever noticed how sometimes we hear a phrase so often that we don't really think about what it means? "Sales and use tax" is one of those phrases that we've probably all heard before, but have you ever stopped to think about what "use tax" actually means? While most of us are familiar with "sales" tax, "use" tax is a concept that often gets overlooked or misunderstood.Let's take a moment to give "use tax" the attention it deserves and learn more about it.What is Use Tax?Use tax is officially defined as the tax on the use, consumption, or storage of a taxable item or service on which no sales tax has been paid. It is required to be paid by the consumer in cases where the seller does not collect sales tax. How Use Tax WorksThe use tax is a form of taxation that applies to specific goods and is charged by a consumer's home municipality or state. Unlike sales tax, which is typically applied to all goods and services, the use tax is only charged under certain circumstances.Here are some common instances where use tax is charged.When a buyer purchases goods from an out-of-state seller who does not charge a sales tax.If you're a professional and you buy goods for your trade in an area where sales tax doesn't apply but you plan to use those goods in an area where sales tax is charged, you might be responsible for paying a use tax.If a buyer purchases items from a seller outside of their home jurisdiction and the seller doesn't charge sales tax, the use tax may be charged if the customer intends to use or store the goods in an area where sales tax is applicable.Use tax is a complementary tax; it's not charged if sales tax is charged. The use tax rate is typically the same as the local sales tax rate, but this also varies per state. It is left up to consumers to calculate and pay use taxes, which makes it challenging to enforce. However, a resident who does not pay use tax may be subject to fines, interest, and penalties.

As a business owner, it's crucial to know your nexus and taxability requirements to avoid running afoul of sales tax laws. Knowing your nexus is crucial because not registering or collecting sales tax when required can result in tax out of your own pocket with significant penalties and interest charges. You must also be aware of the taxability of your products and services in each state where you have nexus. It's essential to understand what's subject to sales tax, what exemptions are available, and how to apply tax rates and rules correctly, but this can be challenging.By having a solid grasp of your nexus and taxability requirements, you can avoid costly errors and remain compliant with sales tax laws. With the right knowledge and resources, you can confidently navigate the complexities of sales tax and protect your business's financial health. So let's get started.

You know how stressful it can feel if you've received a formal letter with the news of an upcoming audit. So let's talk about the next steps. What is an audit?An auditor goes into an audit with two things in mind. They want to determine if your business has collected and remitted the proper sales tax amounts from your customers. They want to verify that you've paid or self-assessed the correct amount of sales and use tax on the purchases you've made during the set audit period. (The set look-back period is typically 3-4 years, but the statute of limitations varies.) The purchases will include both operating expenses and fixed assets. If you find yourself under audit now is a great time to get on a What's Next Call!: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Are you looking for a way to build your sales tax process to help your business grow successfully? Let's discuss the pillars of success that outline the principles you need to know.From Pillars to ProfitWhat do pillars have to do with sales tax? Hear me out. Pillars serve structural purposes. They provide support, stability, and alignment. They serve as protection and prevent damage from external forces. They are an essential component and play a critical role in ensuring stability. The same thing goes for having a good sales tax process. The right pillars will keep your business safe, stable, and aligned. So let's make sure you have your sales tax pillars in place! Sign up for a Free What's Next Call to discuss how we can help at any part of your process:  https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

If you are a business owner who charges customers for shipping and handling, it's important to understand the rules and regulations for charging sales tax on these items. Failure to comply with the laws could result in penalties and fines, so it's crucial to get it right. In this blog post, we'll explain some things you need to know about charging sales tax on shipping and handling, including the rules, exceptions, and best practices.If you are unsure about what you have been doing sign up for a What's Next call today.

Understanding how to calculate sales tax is as simple as multiplying the sales tax rate times the sales price of the item you're selling. However, as simple as it may sound, there are nuances depending on your location and situation. Learning how to correctly charge sales tax in each state can create complexity. Let's talk through it.If you have any questions let's chat HERE.

A new year brings new sales tax changes for some states. As of January 1, economic nexus has taken effect and become active in Missouri. More changes may follow suit. It's a new year, which means there are changes to be aware of! State tax changes take effect either at the beginning of the calendar year (January 1) or the beginning of the fiscal year (July 1). According to the Tax Foundation, “thirty eight states have noteworthy tax changes taking effect.” Check your state here to stay informed on any changes that may affect you or your business. For today's focus, we are going to take a look at the change in states with economic nexus. This summer will mark 5 years since the momentous 2018 Supreme Court case South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. decision that established the sales tax landscape retailers and eCommerce sellers know today. Many businesses are still trying to navigate their way through the new obligations; but as of January 1, every state with sales tax has economic nexus. If you feel that it is time to re-evaluate your nexus footprint schedule a call with us today: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

What does due diligence look like in the sales tax world? As a business owner, due diligence consists of analyzing the accuracy and taxability estimates and your businesses sales tax compliance. It is a process of solving tax problems before they negatively affect your business. This will drastically reduce the amount of unpaid taxes you may owe a state. Questions Answered: What should I be looking at?What ate some blind spots?We offer a free consultation to help you through your due diligence process. Conducting proper due diligence on unpaid taxes or a state audit assessment can greatly reduce your business's total exposure and can save you hundreds of thousands of dollars. Find peace in mind, we would love to help you through your due diligence process. There is confidence in collaboration. Reach out to me here: ryanj@peisnerjohnson.com

Jamie assists businesses in all aspects of state and local tax, from compliance, to audits and administrative proceedings, through litigation. Outside of work, Jamie serves a variety oforganizations including MothersEsquire, Trinity College Board of Trustees, a local dentalnon-profit, and several bar associations. Jamie enjoys raising her fiercely independent, impish daughter; singing; and hiking around Maine with her husband, daughter, and dogs.Conversation Topics Include: - What does Brann & Isaacson do for Clients?  - What does Peisner Johnson and Brann & Isaacson have in common? - What recent legislation changes are your clients experiencing? - What kind of tax traps are you seeing that your clients are dealing with? - What advice can you give to businesses?You can follow Jamie on linkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamieszal/

While serving the people in Guatemala Jeremy Porter was able to see first hand the poverty of the people living near rivers, streams and the coast. He also saw the amount of plastic and trash that was being thrown into these rivers and streams that was reaching the ocean. When he got home and was studying in college he came up with the Idea of Repurpose Recycling. Repurpose Recycling not only helps keep trash out of our oceans but helps those in poverty gain access to more food, freshwater, and money. Listen in as I interview Jeremy about his journey and what he and his company has been able to accomplish.Check out Jeremy on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-porter10/

A common question amongst Amazon sellers is, “If I am part of the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program, am I obligated to collect and remit sales tax?” This can be a tricky question to answer as it is continuously changing and evolving per state. States and local municipalities continually shift and change their tax rules and stances. To complicate things further, Amazon continues to build new warehouses in every state. So finding an accurate answer to this question can prove to be grueling. We're here to help.Recent Changes In general, most states agree that any inventory stored in their state creates nexus which in turn imposes a tax obligation upon sellers. However, the state's stance on this can be ambiguous. Sellers that utilize a marketplace facilitator find that selling through a third party warehouse can throw a wrench in the works. Why? Because you don't always have control over where your inventory is. Typically, inventory creates physical nexus. Though, Arizona has recently changed its stance on this matter. If you want to chat about how these new changes may affect you schedule your What's Next call today! 

Valerie has spent 10 years in Cloud Accounting technology. At LumaTax, she's empowering SALT and Client Accounting Services teams to streamline, elevate, & grow their sales tax advisory services (such as nexus studies, threshold monitoring, registrations, and voluntary disclosures). She partners with accounting professionals through technology transformation as they work to deliver an improved client experience and has a passion for learning and teaching new tools.LumaTax is a sales tax software that has the ability to power your sales tax advisory arm of your accounting firm. With LumaTax you can help advise your business clients on where they may have some sales tax responsibilities or some serious sales tax exposure. LumaTax gives you the ability to not only add some tremendous value to your firm but provide some much needed peace of mind to your clients.  Come listen in as Valerie discusses LumaTax and how it can help you.You can find Valerie on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieheckman/You can find LumaTax here:http://www.lumatax.com/

We have spoken to 100s if not 1000s of small to medium sized businesses that are concerned about their sales tax responsibilities. After a discussion with them and we often find that there is nothing that there needs to be done at the moment. We will never recommend buying things that you don't need. So, I was curious what our recommendations are when it comes to this situation. I invited Paul on to discuss this with me today.Additional Questions Answered:Do I need to collect sales tax?As a small to medium sized business do I need to collect sales tax?As a startup do I need to collect sales tax?Should I sign up for TaxJar, Avalara, Sovos?What should I do right now about sales tax?If you are unsure of what to do about sales tax a great place to start is with our resources page https://peisnerjohnson.com/resources/. If your situation seems more complicated and you can't find the answers that fit your business situation, join us on a what's next call: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

On our podcast episodes we talk a lot about getting on a What's Next Call with us. What we haven't done is go through what a What's Next Call consists of. While this may not be an actual recorded call it is as close as it gets. I asked Paul and Danny to give us a reenactment of a recent call with a new contact that had some questions.  In this particular scenario a business got some bad advice from a professional but now they are suffering the consequences.  They ended up collecting sales where they weren't registered to remit the sales tax. This results in tax being collected and not being remitted. This can be considered as fraud in the states eyes. Surprisingly, this is a very common situation that we run into. So, get your popcorn and enjoy.A What's Next Call has the potential of changing the tide of your sales tax woes. If this sounds like a similar situation you find yourself in, reach out to us today! https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

When someone new engages with us we almost always start with a sales tax risk analysis. Once you find out that you have some sort of sales tax responsibility this analysis should be your next step. With this analysis you will receive a report that will help you decide what to do next. This could mean that you need to get registered for sales tax, engage in a VDA, or do nothing. Since Paul and Jason have engaged in literally thousands of these. So, I asked them to give me some idea of what they cover in one of these sales tax risk analysis.Additional Questions Answered:What is economic nexus?What is physical Nexus?Why is is important to determine the taxability of my product and services?Why is knowing how I sell my product important when it comes to sales tax?What can I expect from a sales tax risk analysis?Can I do a risk analysis on my own?If you would like to know what your sales tax responsibilities are or you had one done and would like a 2nd opinion? Sign up for a free What's Next call and we can get it rolling. https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

We talk to people with businesses on a daily basis that are unhappy with their sales tax compliance process. Those we talk with are either aware or unaware with the flaws in their sales tax compliance process. What they really don't recognize is that there are different solutions to their sales tax woes that they did not know existed. Additional Questions Answered:What does sales tax automated software cost?What re the pros and cons of sales tax automated software?is switching sales tax providers a lot of work?does automated sales tax software provide sales tax consulting?What should I expect to get from a third party sales tax compliance provider?If you are unsatisfied with your current sales tax compliance process you are only a What's Next call away from discovering what is truly possible. Schedule your call today here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Sales tax compliance can be a major burden for a business. As a CPA your clients are looking to you as a trusted advisor and mentor to help them navigate any and all tax issues. If your clients lose sleep over sales tax, you may find that you probably do, too. There's a lot to know, and it can be taxing (no pun intended) to stay up to date while doing all the other functions of your job.That's why we have come up with a simple approach in helping your clients stay compliant so they can avoid exposure. We put together this quick guide created for accountants, bookkeepers and CPAs to help keep their clients compliant.  Today we discuss the 3 most important questions to help give you a clear picture of your clients tax responsibility and potential liability. Additional Questions Answered:Does my client have economic nexus?Does my client have physical nexus?Is what my client sells taxable?Is my client responsible for collecting sales tax?Being a good mentor and consultant is knowing when to ask for help. We have a few resources we are happy to share with you. Please utilize our state-by-state nexus guide and we will respond indicating whether there's an issue in that state or not; we will provide the background about that state. We are also available to help guide you through any further questions you may have through our free “What' Next Call” and we can provide more education. Even if we don't have a partnership or agreement, we are always more than happy to provide guidance and peace of mind for you and your clients. There is confidence in collaboration, and we are ready to collaborate.

Did you know that you may potentially be paying taxes that you don't have to pay? It is becoming more important now than ever for businesses to conduct a sales tax refund review. By doing so they have the potential of saving money and better yet, getting money back from overpayments made on their acquisitions of expense and capital asset items. Listen in to see if you should consider a refund review for your business. If you decide that your business would benefit from a sales tax refund review, schedule your What's Next Call Today! 

There are so many ways that you can sell your product. One of the most popular ways is through a marketplace facilitator like Amazon, Ebay, and Walmart. In many cases a seller can de-register their sales tax accounts if they only sell on a marketplace facilitator. So, I asked Paul and Jason, under what circumstances would a seller need to remain registered or get registered for sales tax.Additional questions answered:What is a marketplace facilitator?If I only sell on Amazon do I have nexus and have to collect sales tax?How does materiality play into determining wether or not I should register for sales tax?If I have inventory in a state do I have to register to collect sales tax?If I only sell on a Marketplace can I just deregister all of my sales tax accounts?What are some of the pitfalls I will run into with sales tax?Do you do significant sales on a marketplace facilitator and are wondering what your sales tax responsibilities are? Don't worry, you are not alone. Jump on what's next call with us here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/  and get some solid peace of mind.

When you are getting your business started there are a lot of things to worry about. One of those things may or may not be sales tax compliance. A lot of people reach out to us about their situation. I invited Paul and Jason on to give their advice on what you should be doing.Questions Answered:How  do I know when I should be collecting sales tax?What is sales tax nexus?Where should I register for sales tax?Does sales tax keep you up at night?When I first start my business do I ned to collect sales tax everywhere?Do I have to do anything about sales tax when I fist start my business?Do I have to collect sales tax after I hit economic nexus thresholds?

When you are looking to get compliant with sales tax you will find a few different "automated" solutions. Peisner Johnson has been  in the sales tax trenches for the last 30 years and we have used every sales tax software solution out there.  But, to truly say that your sales tax is fully automated isn't really accurate. What is automated is truly amazing and well worth it. Let's talk about that.Questions Answered:Is sales tax automation "set it and forget it?"What about sales tax prevents it from being totally automated?What is truly automated  with sales tax automation software solutions?What does sales tax software do right?Do I need to talk to a sales tax professional?How do I know the correct sales tax rates?If you are looking for a sales tax compliance solution or you are not super happy with your current solution, lets chat. You can schedule a call with us here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

I was able to meet with Matthew Holman of Qpilot. Qpilot is an amazing company that will help your company develop and deliver a seamless and unified subscription experience for your customers.  As more and more businesses go online you want to make sure your customers are having the best experience possible to keep them coming back. This is where Qpilot excels and can take your business to the next level.Additional Questions Answered:What is Qpilot?What can Qpilot do for me?How do I set up a subscriptions for my website?Why is it important to have a subscription product or service?How does Qpilot work?If you have wanted or even just considered adding a subscription option to your website and provide a better user experience Qpilot makes it easy. You can connect with Matthew here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holman-matthew/ To learn more about Qpilot check out the website here: https://qpilot.cloud/ You can also join Share House which is a community of like minded people and businesses: https://sharehouse.com/join/

If you are currently selling your product or service online you are probably aware of economic nexus. You are probably even tracking your sales and transactions to make sure you aren't hitting economic nexus thresholds. But, did you know that anyone that you contract to fulfill a service give you nexus in that state? And, that you need to register for a sales tax permit and start collecting sale tax? Today we talk through a few different scenarios where you may have physical nexus.Additional Questions Answered:Do do third party contractors give me sales tax nexus?What are the economic nexus thresholds?Do common carriers give me physical nexus?Do deliveries using my own vehicles give me physical nexus?Does dropshipping my product give me physical nexus?If you are unaware of your own sales tax responsibilities the best place to start is with nexus. Use our free Nexus Calculator to see where your responsibilities lie. 

If you file sales tax returns in Colorado you know just how quickly it can get very complicated. There is not only a state sales tax but there are home rule cities and counties. These are all independent  tax collecting jurisdictions. Now on top of the sales tax you are collecting you now are required to collect the RDF or retail delivery fee of .27 cents on every delivered product.Listen in as we go over what you should be considering for your own business.Additional Questions Answered:What makes Colorado so complicated with sales tax?Is the Retail delivery fee a tax?What form do I use to remit the retail delivery fee?How much is the retail delivery fee?What happens if I don't pay the retail delivery fee?Can I collect the retail delivery fee from my customers?If you need help getting the retail delivery fee in CO jump on a call with us and we will make sure you have it set up correctly. Schedule a call here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

When getting  sales tax compliant, like most things in tax, it can get complicated quickly. As a start up, small business, or you just sell on one marketplace facilitator like Amazon sales tax is simply not that complicated. But, if you are selling on multiple channels, you have multiple products or services, and you sell at a high level getting a sales tax pro is well worth it. We can help you strategize and come up with the best route forward.Additional Questions Answered:How long has Peisner Johnson been around?How do I know what level of sales tax consulting I need?Should I rely on my CPA for my sales tax responsibilities?Does Peisner Johnson work with CPA's to help their clients with sales tax?What is the best way to work with Peisner Johnson?If you are looking to get sales tax compliant or you are looking to change up your provider reach out to us here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

The subscription business model is getting more popular by the minute it seems. Heck! we use a subscription model for ou sales tax return services. The amount of things that you can subscribe to are absolutely staggering. Products range from physical items to software. As it is the more you add to your subscription the more complicated it gets to determine whether or not you should be taxing your product or service. Today we talk about just that.Additional Questions Answered:What makes subscriptions so complicated with sales tax?Do subscription sale give you sales tax nexus?What items are taxable for sales tax in a subscription?How do I know how to tax my items or services?What do I do next if I have sales tax nexus?How do I know if I need to collect sales tax?If you run a subscritpion model in your business it is worth reviewing with us to make sure you are collecting the right amount of sales tax.  Chat with us live now! https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Technology over the last few decades has immensely improved. 30 Years ago when Peisner Johnson was created, research has gone from paper leaflets in binders to the internet. Despite vast improvements sales tax technologies isn't "set it and forget it." Sales tax is complicated enough and ever changing that it will always need collaboration with sales tax practitioners.Additional Questions Answered: How long has PJCo been around?How can sales tax software help?Where is sales tax software a hinderance?Using sales tax software can I just set up my sales tax accounts and forget it?What does sales tax software not do?Has PJCo handle sales tax notices?Should my sales tax returns show that more sales tax than I actually collected?If sales tax software and automation solutions isn't quite what you suspected you are not alone. That is why we have the free "What's Next" call so we can help you decide what you need to do next! Schedule a "What's Next" call here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

We often talk about what the most costly mistake is when it comes to sales tax. That is ignoring your sales tax situation. Every month you ignore it the greater your liability increases. When the sales tax could have been collected from your customers it is now coming out of your pocket. There is another side that we want to talk about today that we call. "the greatest TRAGEDY of sales tax."Additional Questions Answered: Could I really end up in jail for failing to remit the sales taxes I collected?What if I have been collecting sales tax but haven't sent it to the state?Am I set up to collect sales tax correctly?Can a state force me to pay the tax after I have closed my business?How does Peisner Johnson Help?Can I collect the sales tax at the highest rate in a state and call it good?What are the solutions if I have collected sales tax but haven't remitted?If you are in this boat and are unsure of what to do next, book your free What's Next Call today and let's get you sorted out.  https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Compliance seems pretty straight forward, but some states are a little more complex than others. Collecting the right sales tax rate should be easy to figure out, but like most things with sales tax, it depends.... Today we discuss  a few different nuances that you may be subject to.Additional questions answered: How do I know I am properly collecting the right sales tax rate?Do states have different sales tax rates?How do I make sure I am collecting the right sales tax rate?What makes it difficult to know what rate I should collect?Should I be collecting the sales tax rate where my customer is located?If you are unsure if you are collecting the right sales tax rate or that you should be collecting sales tax at all get on a call with us here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Due  diligence when merging or acquiring a business is a no brainer. What happens way to often is sales tax is overlooked or not looked at at all! Sales tax is often a major factor in business purchases and could really decimate your bottom line. We believe having an expert in the sales tax area can be an enormous benefit.Additional Questions Answered:What does due diligence for sales tax look like?How would a refund review help?How can Peisner Johnson help the buyer?How can Peisner Johnson help the seller?Why do we look at purchases?If you are looking to merge with, sell, or purchase a company it would be wise to get on a quick What's Next call with us to help determine if there are any red flags. You can schedule your call here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Have you been in a sales tax audit? Have you ever wondered if you are paying too much sales tax on the purchases you make? Have you ever wondered if you aren't paying enough sales tax? You have probably wondered if your sales tax is even being handled correctly. A refund review could help you in every aspect. That is something that we talk about in this episode.Additional Questions Answered:Am I paying too much sales tax?Am I paying too little sales tax?Should I be self assessing sales tax on my purchases?What gets looked at during a sales tax refund review?Should I get a refund review during a sales tax audit?How Would a refund review benefit me during a merger and acquisition?If you have ever wanted to get a once over on your sales tax situation a refund review can be a good place to start. You can schedule your initial call here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/

Getting registered to file sales tax seems pretty straight forward. But, in fact getting registered for sales tax is actually pretty complicated. Want to find out why? Listen in as we chat about the intricacies and pit falls and what you can do to avoid them.Additional Questions Answered:How do I know where to get registered for sales tax?How many different kinds of sales tax licenses are there?What is sellers use tax?What is use tax?Do I need a business license?What is the process of getting registered for sales tax?What do I do with notices?If you are considering getting registered for sales tax it might be a good idea to chat with an expert. You can do just that for FREE here: https://peisnerjohnson.com/whats-next/