What is H.R. 684?
(Updated December 2, 2014)
States would have the option of forcing online and catalog retailers to collect sales tax at the time of a transaction. States would be granted this authority only after they have simplified their tax codes and provided businesses with free software from one of six certified providers. This bill passed Senate last year as S. 743.
Argument in favor
Increased tax revenues for states and communities. Evens the playing field for brick-and-mortar businesses.
Argument opposed
Would force a complete change in the sales tax system across the states. Privacy concerns. Difficult to administer.
Impact
Impacts both state tax revenues and state tax code compliance for remote sellers.
Cost of H.R. 684
The CBO estimates no impact on the federal budget.
Additional Info
Media:
NOLO: A 50-State Guide to Internet Tax Laws
Wikipedia: Marketplace Fairness Act
Of Note:
-Accounting firm McGladrey recently released an in-depth study on the present state of sales and use taxes on remote purchases, and how various approaches might be done.
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