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How do I handle sales tax for my online store in the US?

Short answer

Sales tax is set by state. After the Wayfair decision, you may need to collect tax in states where you exceed economic nexus thresholds. Use software like your marketplace's collection tools or Avalara/TaxJar and reconcile filings monthly.

Detailed answer

Nexus is state-specific

Physical presence such as stock, employees or an office can create sales-tax obligations even before an economic threshold is reached. Economic nexus tests vary by state and change over time. A marketplace may collect tax on facilitated sales while you still have registration, reporting or direct-website obligations.

Maintain a state-by-state review

Track sales by destination, product taxability and sales channel. Review thresholds with a qualified state-tax adviser and keep marketplace reports as evidence. Reconcile collected tax to filed returns and payments, and do not assume that an app's calculation settings decide whether registration is legally required.

Official sources

Published by Expert Bookkeeping Services · Last updated 2026-11-01. General information only — confirm specifics for your situation with a qualified adviser.

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