Are you operating an online business out of Nashville? In today’s digital world, the opportunities in online retail are abundant, but so are the complexities of e-commerce accounting and taxation.
One crucial area you have to understand is the concept of sales tax nexus and the local regulations related to it. Seeking professional assistance from your CPA is essential in navigating this nuanced e-commerce regulation and ensuring your businesses remain compliant while optimizing your financial strategies.
Here’s a look at what the sales tax nexus in Nashville is all about and how you can successfully navigate it.
What is sales tax nexus?
Sales tax nexus refers to the connection between a business and a state that triggers the obligation to collect and remit sales tax on sales made within that state. Traditionally, physical presence in a state, such as having a brick-and-mortar store or office, established nexus. However, the rise of e-commerce has prompted states to expand their definitions of nexus to include digital connections.
Nashville’s nexus rules
Tennessee, where Nashville is located, has specific rules governing sales tax nexus. Online businesses need to be aware of the following factors that can create nexus:
- Economic nexus thresholds
In Tennessee, an economic nexus is established when a remote seller’s gross sales to customers in the state exceed a certain threshold. As of 2021, this threshold is $100,000 in annual sales or 200 or more separate transactions. If your e-commerce business reaches these thresholds, you are required to collect and remit sales tax in Tennessee. - Marketplace facilitator laws
Many e-commerce businesses operate through online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or Etsy. In Tennessee, marketplace facilitator laws require the marketplace itself to collect and remit sales tax on behalf of third-party sellers for sales made through the platform. This simplifies the process for individual sellers but means that the responsibility for sales tax collection often lies with the marketplace.
What Nashville online business owners should know
- Threshold monitoring
Online businesses should closely monitor their sales to customers in Nashville and Tennessee as a whole. If you approach the economic nexus thresholds, it’s important to proactively plan for sales tax compliance. - Accurate recordkeeping
Maintain detailed records of sales made to customers in Tennessee. This includes transaction details, customer locations, and the amount of sales tax collected. Accurate records are essential for reporting and remittance. - Sales tax collection
If your business meets the economic nexus thresholds or operates through a marketplace that handles tax collection, ensure that you are collecting the correct amount of sales tax from customers during the checkout process. - Registration and reporting
If your business establishes nexus in Nashville or Tennessee, you will likely need to register for a sales tax permit. This will allow you to legally collect and remit sales tax. Additionally, you’ll need to file regular sales tax returns to report the collected tax and submit payments.
Consult your CPA about the sales tax nexus rules in Nashville
Given the evolving nature of sales tax regulations, seeking guidance from your CPA can be immensely beneficial. They can help you navigate the complexities of sales tax nexus and ensure compliance with Nashville and Tennessee laws.
Tax laws can change, and it’s essential to stay informed about any updates or changes in Nashville’s sales tax nexus rules. You can expect your CPA to always remain on top of the latest requirements and ensure your compliance at all times.
