CA—Sales & Use Tax: Taxpayer Obligated to Collect Tax Because It Held Certificate of Registration
CA: An out-of-state online retailer’s petition for redetermination of its obligation to collect California sales and use tax was denied because the taxpayer, by applying for and maintaining a valid certificate of registration, assumed a responsibility to collect tax. In this matter, the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration determined that the taxpayer was required to collect and remit use tax to the department because the taxpayer held a certificate of registration.
The taxpayer argued that it only applied for the certificate because its vendors required it and not because it was legally obligated to collect and remit use tax. Further, the taxpayer contended that the certificate was irrelevant because the taxpayer lacked nexus with California. However, it was noted that the taxpayer held a certificate throughout the liability period. Therefore, the taxpayer had a duty to collect and remit use tax from its California customers until the certificate was canceled. Further, the taxpayer’s argument that it lacked substantial nexus with the state was irrelevant. Accordingly, the taxpayer’s petition was denied.
About Davis Davis & Harmon LLC – Sales Tax Experts: Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Davis Davis & Harmon LLC – Sales Tax Experts specializes in sales/use tax refund recovery and audit defense. Our team of consultants is comprised of former Big 4 sales tax consultants and state sales tax auditors. Each of our consultants has 15 to 20 years of experience, providing our clients with access to a highly specialized team of sales/use tax professionals. At Davis Davis & Harmon, LLC we are committed to maintaining the highest standards in our talent pool. We work hard to meet our clients’ needs by ensuring that you view our firm as an extension of your company and a member of your team.
