It's Official. Because of California and County laws and regulations my shop will be closing it's doors. In order to sell in California whether it be online or an actual store you need to collect sales tax. In order to that you have to have a seller's permit and pay the California State Board of Equalization for the sales tax that you have collected. Now the seller's permit is free but you have to apply for a seller's permit in the county that you're selling in. That's where things get complicated. I was told that the county needs me to apply for a business license and to file a fictitious business name statement which is my shop name. After I file a fictitious business name statement I have to publish it in the newspaper once a week for 4 weeks. This is going to cost way too much for something that was meant to be a hobby and fun. I don't make much sales so it wouldn't be worth it for me to keep my shop open.
I am going to keep my blog, Facebook and Twitter open. I'm hoping to make more tutorials and share projects that I'm working on. As my daughter put it, closing my shop could be a good thing. I can have more fun crafting now instead of worrying about things I have to make for my shop. I did stress out a lot if an item didn't come out perfect. Now I can relax.
I want to thank everyone who has supported me and have bought items from me. I have made so many online friends and I hope we can still keep in touch. Thanks again. God bless you all.
Laura Tiffany
That's too bad. I really don't think you need to collect sales tax if your are selling as a hobby. Thanks for being part of the california artfire group.
ReplyDeleteHi You do need to collect sales tax if you sell anything. However, you might be able to claim an exemption if your annual sales are under *Ithink" $400 from the County. Might be worth checking out. Pat
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