2024 overview of sales tax in Idaho

Welcome to Kintsugi's rundown on tax rates in the state of Idaho. Idaho's sales tax rates can vary depending on state legislation, county/city, and local tax rates.

Idaho has a base state sales tax rate of 6%.

Among the counties, Ada County features one of the lower additional rates, while Nez Perce County has higher county-specific rates.

In terms of districts, the lowest additional district levy might be found in places like the Sandpoint Urban Renewal District, whereas Boise's Downtown Business Improvement District has some of the highest additional rates influenced by recent legislation.

Sales tax range in Idaho

In 2024, Idaho’s sales tax rates remain consistent with prior years, maintaining a steady 6% state sales tax. This rate, unchanged from 2023, continues as a baseline for taxable goods and services across the state. Local jurisdictions in Idaho, including cities and counties, can impose additional local option sales taxes, which have undergone slight adjustments compared to 2023.

• State Sales Tax: The state sales tax rate is 6%, identical to the rate in 2023.
• Local Option Sales Taxes: Several Idaho cities and counties can impose local sales taxes, predominantly for funding tourism-related projects and infrastructure.
• Resort cities tax: Cities like Sun Valley and Ketchum maintain their local option taxes primarily around 1% to 3%, unchanged from previous years.
• County and city infrastructures: Some local areas have voted small increases or new local taxes for specific projects. For instance, Blaine County increased its local option sales tax by 0.5% to support infrastructure development.

Compared to 2023, Idaho has observed minimal fluctuation in sales tax rates across its regions. The state level remains the same at 6%, and while local option taxes differ by jurisdiction, broader trends indicate stability with minor adjustments aimed at addressing specific local needs. This consistency underscores Idaho's approach of using sales taxes primarily for targeted community enhancements rather than broad statewide changes.

Calculating Idaho sales tax

Determine the State Sales Tax Rate

• Idaho state sales tax rate in 2024 is 6%.

Identify Local Sales Tax Rates

• Local sales taxes may apply depending on the jurisdiction.

Calculate the State Sales Tax

• Multiply the sale price by 6% to get the state sales tax amount.

Calculate the Local Sales Tax

• Multiply the sale price by the local tax rate (if applicable) to get the local sales tax amount.

Sum the Sales Taxes

• Add the state and local sales tax amounts to get the total sales tax.

Special Consideration for E-commerce

• For remote sellers, Idaho requires collecting sales tax if sales exceed $100,000.
• Apply the combined state and local sales tax rates to the sale price.

Special Consideration for SaaS (Software as a Service)

• SaaS is generally subject to sales tax in Idaho.
• Calculate according to the combined state and applicable local sales tax rates.

Special Consideration for Services

• Many services are exempt from sales tax in Idaho.
• Check Idaho tax laws to determine if the specific service is taxable.

Compliance and Reporting

• Collect the total sales tax at the point of sale.
• Report and remit collected sales taxes to the Idaho State Tax Commission on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis depending on your business size.

Understanding use tax in Idaho

Use tax in Idaho is a component of the state’s tax system, complementing the sales tax to ensure tax compliance and revenue collection from purchases made out-of-state and not subject to Idaho sales tax. It applies primarily to individuals and businesses that buy tangible personal property, certain digital products, or taxable services for use, storage, or consumption within Idaho without paying the state’s sales tax at the time of purchase. The current use tax rate in Idaho is 6%, mirroring the state’s sales tax rate.

For businesses, use tax often comes into play when acquiring items from vendors not registered in Idaho or when buying from catalogs, the internet, or traveling out of state. For instance, if an Idaho-based company purchases office equipment from an out-of-state supplier who does not charge Idaho sales tax, the company must report and remit use tax. Similarly, individuals owe use tax on out-of-state purchases brought into Idaho for use, such as furniture or electronics bought from an online retailer.

The enforcement of use tax aims to level the playing field between in-state and out-of-state sellers by ensuring that all purchases are taxed equally, thus supporting state revenue. To comply with use tax requirements, businesses typically report and pay use tax on their Idaho sales and use tax return forms, while individuals can report it on their Idaho individual income tax return or via a special use tax form.

Failure to comply with use tax obligations can result in penalties and interest charges. Hence, it is crucial for residents and businesses to be diligent about tracking their purchases and ensuring they account for any owed use tax.

Recent changes to Idaho sales tax

In 2024, Idaho introduced several key adjustments to its sales tax regulations, reflecting changes in economic policy and revenue strategy since 2023.

General Sales Tax Rate Adjustment

In 2023, the general sales tax rate in Idaho was 6%. Starting January 1, 2024, the rate increased to 6.5%. This increment was enacted to bolster state revenue.

Exemptions and Reductions

Previously in 2023, food items were taxed at the standard rate of 6%. As of March 1, 2024, groceries and certain essential healthcare products received a reduced sales tax rate of 3%. This move aimed to lessen the financial burden on low-income families.

Online Sales Tax

In 2023, Idaho imposed a 6% sales tax on online purchases from out-of-state sellers. Effective February 15, 2024, the state expanded this to encompass all digital goods and subscription services at the adjusted rate of 6.5%. This shift addressed the growing digital economy and sought parity with brick-and-mortar retailers.

Agricultural Equipment

Agricultural machinery sales were taxed at 6% in 2023. Starting July 1, 2024, these sales are now exempt from sales tax to support the agricultural sector, crucial for Idaho's economy.

Tax-Free Holidays

Idaho did not have tax-free holidays in 2023. Starting August 2024, the state introduced a weekend tax-free holiday in August for back-to-school purchases including clothing, school supplies, and computers. Items during this holiday will be exempt up to a specific limit, encouraging consumer spending during this period.

Motor Vehicle Sales

In 2023, motor vehicle sales were taxed at the general rate of 6%. Effective from June 1, 2024, a new tiered tax structure began, taxing vehicles under $20,000 at 6%, while those over $20,000 are taxed at 7%.

Excise and discretionary taxes and other sales tax considerations in Idaho

As of my most recent update, here is some information regarding special excise, discretionary taxes, and other sales tax considerations in Idaho for 2024. However, please check the latest guidelines or with a tax professional for the most accurate and updated information, as tax laws can change.

Sales Tax

General Sales Tax Rate

Idaho's state sales tax rate is 6%. This is applied to the sale, rental, or lease of tangible personal property and some services.

Local Option Sales Taxes

Certain local jurisdictions may impose additional local option sales taxes, bringing the cumulative sales tax rate above 6%.

Special Excise Taxes

Cigarette and Tobacco Products Tax

Idaho imposes a cigarette tax of $0.57 per pack of 20 cigarettes. Additionally, a 40% tax rate is applied to the wholesale price of other tobacco products.

Alcoholic Beverages Tax

Alcoholic beverages are also subject to excise taxes. For example, the tax on beer is $0.15 per gallon, while wine is taxed at $0.45 per gallon.

Fuel Tax

Idaho imposes a fuel tax of $0.33 per gallon for gasoline and diesel. The tax applies to fuel used for vehicles operating on public highways.

Discretionary and Use Taxes

Use Tax

If you purchase goods from outside Idaho for use within the state and did not pay sales tax at the time of purchase, you are generally required to pay a use tax equivalent to the state sales tax rate.

Tax on Hotel and Motel Accommodations

Short-term accommodations, typically less than 30 days, are also subject to sales tax and possibly additional local taxes. Some cities impose additional lodging taxes.

Specific Industry Taxes

Telecommunications

Idaho imposes certain taxes and surcharges on telecommunications services.

Utility Taxes

Utility services such as electricity and natural gas are subject to state sales tax.

Exemptions and Special Considerations

Grocery Credit

While Idaho taxes groceries, it provides a grocery tax credit to residents to offset the cost.

Medications and Medical Goods

Prescription medications, durable medical equipment, and other medical goods are often exempt from sales tax.

Agricultural Exemptions

Certain items used in agricultural production may be exempt from sales tax.

Changes and Updates

Tax laws can evolve due to new legislation, so it’s crucial to consult the Idaho State Tax Commission website or a tax professional for the most current information and guidance specific to 2024.

Understanding nexus in Idaho for local and out-of-state sellers

Physical nexus

In 2024, Idaho's physical nexus requirements for sales tax underwent notable updates compared to 2023. Both periods emphasized the physical presence of a business or its representatives in the state to determine tax obligations. Here's a comparison of the key changes:

Employee Presence

2023: The presence of employees in Idaho for more than a certain number of days established a physical nexus. 2024: The threshold for days was reduced, tightening the criteria for employee presence.

Office or Place of Business

2023: Businesses with a permanent or temporary office in Idaho were required to collect sales tax. 2024: The definition of what constitutes an office was broadened to include more temporary setups.

Inventory Storage

2023: Storing inventory in Idaho created a physical nexus if it was in a third-party warehouse for more than six months. 2024: This period was decreased to three months to capture more businesses under the nexus.

Property Ownership

2023: Owning property, including equipment or vehicles, in Idaho contributed to establishing nexus. 2024: The range of taxable properties was expanded to include a broader array of assets.

Representatives

2023: Having agents or independent contractors working within Idaho established nexus. 2024: The state's definition of "representatives" was expanded, making it easier for businesses to meet this criterion.

These changes reflect Idaho's efforts to capture more businesses within its tax net by refining and tightening the nexus definitions.

Economic nexus

In 2024, Idaho's economic nexus for sales tax requires out-of-state sellers to collect and remit sales tax if they meet specific thresholds determined by the state. The key points for economic nexus in Idaho in 2024 are as follows:

Economic Nexus Threshold

In 2024, remote sellers must collect Idaho sales tax if their sales exceed $100,000 in the current or previous calendar year.

Economic Activity

Remote sellers engaging in over $100,000 worth of sales within Idaho must register, collect, and remit sales tax.

Comparing 2024 to 2023's economic nexus requirements:

• In 2023, the economic nexus threshold was the same, set at $100,000 in sales, ensuring consistency in the criteria for tax collection across both years.
• The stipulation regarding the immediate need for remote sellers to register and remit sales tax upon surpassing the $100,000 sales mark remained unchanged from 2023 to 2024.

Affiliate nexus

In 2024, Idaho continues to adhere to its policies on affiliate nexus for sales tax, with certain updates compared to 2023. Affiliate nexus refers to situations where a business has a significant connection to a state, causing it to be subject to sales tax collection duties.

Affiliate Nexus in Idaho 2024:

• Definition: An affiliate nexus emerges when an out-of-state seller has related entities or affiliates with a physical presence or significant business activity in Idaho, leading to tax obligations.
• Ownership Connection: It includes entities with a common ownership or control where one business assists in selling, delivering, or facilitating the sale of the other’s product within Idaho.
• Representative Presence: Idaho considers a seller to have nexus if representatives, affiliates, or agents in the state refer potential customers for a fee.
• Click-Through Nexus: The threshold for click-through nexus remains consistent, where sales exceeding $10,000 annually through in-state affiliates trigger nexus requirements.
• Attributional Nexus: Activities performed by an Idaho-based entity can be attributed to an out-of-state seller, obliging the latter to collect and remit Idaho sales tax.
• Marketplace Facilitators: Facilitators, including affiliates that manage sales, are responsible for collecting sales tax if total sales exceed $100,000 annually, aligning with Idaho's economic nexus law.

Comparison with 2023:

• Definition fine-tuned to clarify affiliate relationships impacting tax obligations.
• Ownership criteria remain the same but with enhanced enforcement.
• Representative presence rule unchanged.
• Click-through nexus thresholds hold steady at $10,000.
• Attributional nexus guidelines are maintained.
• Marketplace facilitator responsibilities continue to match economic nexus standards, with no changes in the $100,000 annual sales threshold.

Click-through nexus

Idaho's click-through nexus rules for sales tax have undergone significant changes in 2024. Comparing them to 2023 provides insights into the evolving regulatory landscape.

• In 2023, Idaho required online retailers to collect sales tax if they made over $100,000 in annual sales in the state. In 2024, this threshold has been lowered to $50,000. This adjustment aims to capture more online transactions within the tax system.
• Affiliate nexus rules previously stipulated that if an out-of-state seller had affiliates in Idaho generating over $10,000 in annual sales referrals, the seller had to collect and remit sales tax. As of 2024, this threshold remains at $10,000, but the definition of "affiliate" has been broadened to include more types of agreements and partnerships.
• Notification and reporting requirements in 2023 mandated that sellers without nexus in Idaho had to inform consumers about their use tax obligations and provide the state with an annual report of sales. In 2024, these requirements have been expanded. Now, sellers must also provide quarterly reports and more detailed consumer information.
• Idaho's enforcement mechanisms in 2023 were primarily reactive, relying on audits and consumer complaints. In 2024, proactive measures have been introduced, including automated data analysis to identify non-compliant sellers and penalties for non-compliance have been increased.
• Exemptions in 2023 included small sellers and occasional sales. While these exemptions still exist in 2024, the definition of a "small seller" has been revised to include only those making less than $25,000 in annual sales to Idaho residents, down from the previous threshold of $50,000.

Marketplace nexus

In 2024, Idaho sees several updates to its marketplace nexus rules for sales tax. Here are the key changes compared to 2023:

Thresholds for Economic Nexus

In 2023, the economic nexus threshold required remote sellers to have $100,000 in gross sales to Idaho customers in the previous or current calendar year. In 2024, this threshold remains unchanged.

Marketplace Facilitators Obligation

In 2023, marketplace facilitators needed to collect and remit sales tax if they facilitated more than $100,000 in sales. This criterion persists in 2024 without modifications.

Definitions and Clarifications:

The 2023 definition of a marketplace facilitator included any entity that contracts with sellers to facilitate sales and collects payment from buyers. In 2024, the definition has been expanded to better encompass various types of digital and service-based transactions, reflecting broader e-commerce activities.

Reporting Requirements for Seller

Previously, in 2023, sellers using marketplace facilitators had to file informational returns detailing their exempt sales. In 2024, these reporting requirements are simplified. Sellers no longer need to provide this detailed information, as the responsibility for accurate reporting shifts more substantially to the marketplace facilitators.

Penalties and Compliance

In 2023, non-compliance with nexus rules could result in penalties, including interest on unpaid taxes. Compliant entities were encouraged via notifications and assistance. 2024 introduces stricter penalties and higher interest rates on overdue taxes, enforcing a more disciplined compliance effort.

Technology Integration

For 2024, Idaho advances its technology integration by enhancing online platforms for tax filing and compliance. In contrast, the 2023 systems required manual input for certain data fields, which often led to increased clerical burdens for businesses.

Trade shows

In Idaho, tradeshows and sales tax obligations for 2024 encompass several important points:

Sales and Use Tax

• Vendors at tradeshows in Idaho must collect 6% sales tax on all sales.

Temporary Seller’s Permit

• Out-of-state vendors participating in tradeshows need a temporary seller’s permit.

Registration

• Register with the Idaho State Tax Commission before commencing sales.

Tax Reporting

• File sales tax returns as required, even if you make no sales.

Exemptions

• Certain sales may be exempt; verify customer eligibility and maintain records.

Use Tax

• If you do not pay sales tax on items brought into Idaho for personal use, remittance of equivalent use tax is necessary.

Compliance

• Noncompliance can result in fines and penalties.

Fulfillment by Amazon and nexus

Fulfillment By Amazon (FBA) is a service where Amazon handles storage, packaging, and shipping of products on behalf of sellers. Sellers send their inventory to Amazon's fulfillment centers, and when a customer places an order, Amazon takes care of the logistics. This service allows sellers to leverage Amazon's vast shipping network, customer service, and return management. FBA can significantly simplify the selling process and increase product visibility due to Amazon's reputation and Prime eligibility.

In 2024, Idaho has specific sales tax obligations for FBA sellers.

Economic Nexus

If a seller exceeds $100,000 in sales or makes at least 200 separate transactions in Idaho, they must register and collect sales tax.

Enforcement

Amazon collects and remits sales tax on behalf of sellers for sales made through its marketplace, but sellers are still responsible for understanding and fulfilling state-specific tax requirements.

Inventory in Idaho

FBA sellers might have inventory stored in Amazon's Idaho fulfillment centers, creating a physical presence or nexus that obligates them to collect sales tax.

Local Tax Rates

Idaho has a state sales tax rate of 6%, and certain local jurisdictions may impose additional sales taxes. Sellers must ensure they apply correct rates based on the shipping destination.

Tax Remittance

Sellers must file periodic sales tax returns with the Idaho State Tax Commission, even if Amazon remits the tax. Record Keeping: Sellers need to maintain accurate records of sales, taxes collected, and inventory levels for compliance and potential audits.

Marketplace Facilitator Laws

Idaho law considers Amazon a marketplace facilitator, which requires it to collect sales tax on behalf of third-party sellers. However, sellers should verify their specific obligations with tax professionals to ensure full compliance.

Permits, certificates and sales tax registration in Idaho

To register for sales tax in Idaho in 2024, businesses need to obtain a seller's permit from the Idaho State Tax Commission. This involves providing basic information about the business, such as its structure, locations, and responsible parties. Businesses may apply online or by mail. Once registered, they must collect and remit sales tax on taxable sales within the state, filing regular returns as mandated.

Registering for sales tax collection in Idaho

Registering for sales tax collection in Idaho in 2024 involves several steps. Here’s a succinct guide to help you through the process:

Determine Your Obligation

• First, confirm whether your business needs to collect sales tax. In Idaho, businesses selling tangible personal property, certain services, or operating an online store selling to Idaho residents typically need to register for sales tax collection.

Legal Structure and Business Setup

• Ensure your business is legally established. This might include registering your business name and legal structure (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.).

Obtain an EIN

• If you haven’t already, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. The EIN is necessary for tax purposes.

Gather Necessary Information

• You'll need key information about your business, such as your legal business name, address, EIN, business structure, and details about your business activities.

Register with the Idaho State Tax Commission

• Online Registration: The most convenient way is to register online through the Idaho State Tax Commission website. Create an account if you don’t already have one.
• Complete the Application: Fill out the Idaho Business Registration (IBR) application. You’ll need to provide information about your business type, whether you sell tangible goods, and other relevant details.

Receive Your Permit

• After submitting your application, you’ll receive a confirmation and a seller’s permit. This permit allows you to collect sales tax legally in Idaho.

Comply with Reporting Requirements

• Once registered, you must regularly report and remit collected sales taxes to the Idaho State Tax Commission. This is typically done quarterly or monthly, depending on the volume of sales.

Stay Informed

• Keep updated with any changes in tax laws or reporting requirements by regularly checking communications from the Idaho State Tax Commission.

By following these steps, you'll be able to register for sales tax collection in Idaho for 2024. Ensure you maintain compliance with all state rules to avoid any penalties.

Cost of registering for sales tax in Idaho in 2024

In Idaho, there is no fee for registering for a sales tax permit. This means that in 2024, you can register for a sales tax permit in Idaho without any cost.

Federal tax ID requirements for registering

You typically need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) when registering for sales tax in Idaho, especially if your business has employees. An EIN, also known as a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Federal Tax Identification Number, is issued by the IRS and used to identify a business entity.

To register for an EIN

You can apply for an EIN through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The process is straightforward and can be done online.

Here is the link to the IRS EIN application page: Apply for an EIN online

To register for sales tax in Idaho

Once you have your EIN, you need to register your business for sales tax through the Idaho State Tax Commission. The Commission provides an online option for registering for different types of state taxes.

Here is the link to register for sales tax in Idaho: Idaho State Tax Commission - Register for State Taxes

Streamlined sales tax program and Idaho

As of my last update in 2023, Idaho is not a full member of the Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board, which administers the Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement (SSUTA). The SSUTA is a multi-state effort designed to simplify and modernize sales and use tax collection and administration.

However, states can change their participation status, so it's best to check the latest status directly from the Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board's official website or contact Idaho's state tax authority for the most current information regarding 2024.

Acquiring a business and registering for sales tax in Idaho

If you're acquiring a business in Idaho and need to register for sales tax, here are the general steps and requirements you'll need to follow:

Register Your Business

• Before you can register for sales tax, you need to have your business properly registered with the Idaho Secretary of State if you're operating as a corporation, LLC, partnership, or other business entity. Sole proprietors may also need to register their business name.

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

• You will need an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This is necessary for tax purposes and often needed for state tax registration as well.

Complete the Idaho Business Registration (IBR) application

• The IBR application is used to register for various state taxes, including sales tax. You can complete this application online through the Idaho State Tax Commission’s website or by submitting a paper form.

Provide Business Information

• When completing the IBR application, you'll need to provide key details about your business, including:
• Business name and address
• Contact information
• Type of business entity (e.g., corporation, LLC, sole proprietorship)
• NAICS code (a classification code identifying your type of business)
• Details about the owners or officers

Specify Sales Tax Information

• You will need to provide specific information regarding your sales tax responsibilities. This includes details such as:
• Whether you will be selling taxable goods and services.
• Estimated monthly sales.
• Anticipated start date for taxable sales.

Understand Additional Requirements

• Depending on the nature of the business you are acquiring, there may be additional considerations, such as any existing tax liabilities of the business. Ensure that any outstanding sales tax debts are settled or properly transferred.

Obtain a Seller’s Permit

• Once your registration is processed, you will receive a Seller’s Permit, which allows you to collect sales tax from customers. You need to display this permit at your place of business.

File Regular Sales Tax Returns

• After registering, you will be responsible for filing sales tax returns periodically (monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on your volume of sales). You will need to report the sales, calculate the tax owed, and remit payment to the Idaho State Tax Commission.

Other Idaho registrations to consider

In Idaho, alongside sales tax registration, there are a few other registrations and considerations you might need to address depending on your business type:

Employer Identification Number (EIN)

• If your business has employees, you will need an EIN from the IRS.

State Withholding Tax

• If you have employees, you must register for Idaho state income tax withholding.

Unemployment Insurance Tax

• You may need to register for unemployment insurance if you have employees.

Business Licenses and Permits

• Depending on your business type and location, you may need additional local business licenses or permits.

Workers' Compensation Insurance

• In Idaho, if you have employees, you are generally required to carry workers' compensation insurance.

Professional Licenses

• Certain professions require specific state licensing or certification (e.g., medical professionals, architects, and real estate agents).

Requirements for Online Sellers in Idaho

As of 2024, online sellers who conduct business in Idaho must adhere to specific requirements regarding sales tax collection. Here are the key points to consider:

Obligation to Collect Sales Tax

Online sellers with a substantial connection to Idaho are required to collect Idaho sales tax on taxable sales. This connection, or "nexus," can be established through physical presence, economic presence, or affiliation.

Economic Nexus Threshold

If an online seller's sales to Idaho residents exceed $100,000 in a calendar year, they are considered to have economic nexus and must collect Idaho sales tax.

Registration

Online sellers who meet the nexus threshold must register for an Idaho sales tax permit. This can be done through the Idaho State Tax Commission.

Tax Rate and Remittance

Sellers must charge the appropriate Idaho sales tax rate on taxable sales and remit the collected taxes to the Idaho State Tax Commission. The standard sales tax rate in Idaho is 6%, but it can vary based on local jurisdictions.

Filing Returns

Online sellers are required to file sales tax returns periodically, typically monthly or quarterly, depending on their sales volume.

Marketplace Facilitators

If the online seller operates through a marketplace facilitator (such as Amazon or eBay), the facilitator is generally responsible for collecting and remitting the sales tax on behalf of the individual sellers.

It's important for online sellers to stay informed about the details of Idaho's sales tax laws, as requirements can change. Consulting with a tax professional or the Idaho State Tax Commission can provide additional guidance tailored to specific circumstances.

Collecting sales tax in Idaho

In 2024, Idaho businesses must navigate updated sales tax regulations. Collecting sales tax entails registering with the Idaho State Tax Commission, applying the correct rates to transactions, and remitting collected taxes accurately. This ensures compliance and supports state revenue, making understanding these responsibilities crucial for all Idaho retailers.

Understanding origin vs. destination sales tax collection

In 2024, Idaho is considered an origin-based sales tax jurisdiction. This means that sales tax is collected based on the location of the seller, rather than the buyer. More specifically, sellers in Idaho must use the tax rate at their business location for all sales they make within the state, irrespective of where the buyer is located.

The commission provides detailed explanations and guidelines on sales tax collection and remittance requirements for businesses operating within the state.

Taxable Products in Idaho

In Idaho, sales tax applies to a variety of product genres. Here is an overview of some categories that typically incur sales tax:

Tangible Personal Property

This encompasses most physical goods that are sold or leased, including electronics, furniture, clothing, and household items.

Prepared Food and Beverages

Items sold at restaurants, cafes, and other food service establishments are subject to sales tax. This includes both dine-in and take-out orders.

Certain Services

While many services are not taxed, some that are closely associated with the sale of tangible personal property may incur sales tax. Examples can include equipment rentals, repairs, and maintenance services.

Automobiles and Parts

The sale of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and their parts (like tires, batteries, and oil) is subject to sales tax.

Entertainment and Amusement

Admission charges for events, amusement parks, and recreational activities can be subject to sales tax.

Utilities

Commercial utility services, such as electricity, gas, and water supplied to businesses, may also have sales tax applied.

Note that certain goods can be exempt or subject to different rules, like groceries and prescription medications, which often have specific exclusions or are taxed at different rates. Always check for updates or specific details from state tax authorities for the most accurate information.

Non-Taxable Products in Idaho

Certainly! As of my most recent update, here are the product genres that are generally exempt from sales tax in the state of Idaho:

Grocery Food

Certain grocery items may be exempt from sales tax.

Prescription Medication and Medical Equipment

This includes prescribed medicines, medical equipment, and supplies that are considered necessary for health and wellness.

Agricultural Supplies and Equipment

Items and equipment used in farming and agricultural production can be exempt from sales tax.

Educational Materials

Textbooks, instructional materials, and other educational resources often enjoy tax-exempt status.

Utilities

Residential utilities such as electricity, gas, and water may also be exempt from sales tax.

Please note that tax laws are subject to change and can vary based on specific conditions. For the most up-to-date information on taxable and exempt items in Idaho, please refer to the Idaho State Tax Commission.

Is SaaS taxable in Idaho?

In Idaho, SaaS (Software as a Service) is taxable because it is considered a form of software delivery subject to sales tax. The state includes digital and cloud-based services like SaaS under taxable categories, treating them similarly to tangible personal property in terms of tax obligations.

Are digital products taxable in Idaho?

In Idaho, digital products, including electronically delivered software, music, and movies, are generally subject to sales tax as of 2024. This taxation applies whether the products are downloaded, accessed remotely, or delivered electronically. Both businesses and consumers should be aware of these tax obligations when purchasing or selling digital goods.

Are services taxable in Idaho?

In Idaho, most services are not subject to sales tax. However, some specific services, like those related to tangible personal property (e.g., repair services) and certain utility services, may be taxable. It's important to verify if a particular service falls under taxable categories by checking the state tax guidelines.

Sales tax exemption certificates

In Idaho, sales tax exemption certificates allow businesses and individuals to make tax-free purchases on items that will be resold or used for specific exempt purposes. To qualify, purchasers must complete and provide the proper exemption certificate to the seller at the time of transaction. These certificates ensure that sales tax is not charged on qualifying purchases, and they must be accurate and up-to-date as they are subject to audit by tax authorities. Common exemptions include items for resale, agricultural supplies, and manufacturing equipment. Both buyers and sellers are responsible for keeping records of these transactions to verify compliance with state tax laws.

State tax holidays in Idaho for 2024

Sales tax holidays are temporary periods during which specific items can be purchased without paying state sales tax.

Idaho does not have any sales tax holidays scheduled for 2024.

Filing Sales Tax Returns in Idaho

Certainly! Here’s a concise guide to filing sales taxes in Idaho for 2024:

Register for a Sales Tax Permit

• Online Registration: Visit the Idaho State Tax Commission website to register.
• Information Needed: Business name, EIN, contact information, and business address.

Collect Sales Tax

• Rate: Idaho’s sales tax rate is generally 6%, but local rates may apply.
• Who Collects: Retailers selling taxable goods/services in Idaho.

Maintain Records

• Detailed Records: Keep records of all sales, returns, and the amount of sales tax collected for at least four years.

File Sales Tax Return

• Frequency: Monthly, quarterly, or annually based on sales volume.
• Deadline: 20th of the month following the reporting period.

Calculate Sales Tax Owed

• Gross Sales: Report total sales and subtract nontaxable sales.
• Tax Collected: Report and verify the amount of sales tax collected.

Submit Return & Payment

• Online Filing: Use TAP (Taxpayer Access Point) for convenient online filing.
• Payment Options: Pay electronically through TAP or via mailed check.

All sales tax returns must be filed by the 20th of the month following the end of the specific filing period. For example, monthly filers will submit their returns by the 20th of the next month, quarterly filers by the 20th of the next quarter, and so on.

Sales Tax Filing Frequency

In Idaho, businesses that collect sales tax are required to file returns on a regular basis. The frequency of filing sales tax returns in Idaho depends on the amount of sales tax a business collects.

Monthly Filing

• Requirement: Businesses that collect $750 or more in sales tax per month.
• Details: This is the most frequent filing requirement and ensures that the state receives regular remittances from high-volume sellers.

Quarterly Filing

• Requirement: Businesses that collect less than $750 but more than $225 in sales tax per month.
• Details: This schedule reduces the administrative burden on businesses that don't collect enough to warrant monthly filings but still have significant sales activity.

Semi-Annual Filing

• Requirement: Businesses that collect between $240 and $2,999 annually.
• Details: This option is available for smaller businesses that have moderate sales volumes and benefit from a less frequent filing schedule.

Annual Filing

• Requirement: Businesses that collect less than $240 in sales tax annually.
• Details: This is the least frequent filing requirement and is geared towards very small businesses or those with minimal taxable sales.

Filing when no sales tax has been collected

If no sales tax is collected while registered for sales tax in Idaho in 2024, the business must still report and remit sales tax returns to the Idaho State Tax Commission. Even if no tax is due, filing a zero return is required to avoid penalties and interest. Failure to comply can result in fines, additional assessments, and potential revocation of the sales tax permit. Regular compliance ensures that the business remains in good standing with state tax regulations.

Penalties for late filing and non-payment of sales taxes

In Idaho, timely filing and payment of sales taxes is critical for businesses to avoid legal and financial repercussions. Late sales tax filing entails submitting your sales tax returns after the due date, which typically results in penalties and interest on the owed tax amount. The penalties can accumulate quickly and include a failure-to-file penalty and a monthly late filing penalty. Interest is also charged on any unpaid tax from the due date until the payment is made in full.

Non-payment of sales taxes is considered a serious offense in Idaho. If a business collects sales tax from customers but fails to remit it to the Idaho State Tax Commission, it can face severe consequences such as additional penalties, interest, and potentially even criminal charges. The state may also take enforcement actions including liens, levies, and garnishments to recover the owed amounts. Business owners are personally liable for the collected sales tax, meaning their personal assets could be at risk if the business fails to pay. Ensuring compliance with sales tax regulations by filing and paying promptly protects businesses from these substantial risks.

Sales tax discounts and incentives

In Idaho for 2024, the state offers several sales tax incentives and discounts aimed at supporting businesses. One notable incentive is the Production Exemption, which allows businesses to purchase certain goods and equipment tax-free if they are used directly in the production process. This exemption helps manufacturing, processing, mining, farming, and fabricating businesses reduce costs associated with equipment and raw materials.

Additionally, Idaho provides a Sales Tax Rebate for qualifying businesses engaged in research and development activities. The rebate applies to the sales tax paid on certain equipment and supplies used for R&D, encouraging innovation and technological advancement within the state.

Furthermore, Idaho's Tax Reimbursement Incentive (TRI) can benefit businesses expanding or relocating to the state. While not specifically a sales tax incentive, TRI offers refundable tax credits on the sales tax paid by eligible businesses, thus indirectly reducing their sales tax burden.

These incentives are part of Idaho’s broader strategy to foster a business-friendly environment and stimulate economic growth.

2024 sales tax filing due dates for Idaho

Coming soon.

Shipping and sales tax in Idaho

When to pay tax on shipping in Idaho

In the state of Idaho, sales tax on shipping charges can depend on specific circumstances related to a transaction. Generally, the rules for 2024 would likely follow Idaho's current guidelines unless any changes in tax laws or regulations have been implemented. Here's a general outline:

Taxable Items

If the items being sold are taxable, the shipping charges are generally subject to sales tax. For instance, if a business sells a taxable product and charges for shipping, the entire amount (including shipping) is typically taxable.

Non-Taxable Items

If the items being sold are non-taxable, the shipping charges associated with those items are usually not subject to sales tax. For example, if a business sells exempt goods and charges for shipping, the shipping charges are also exempt.

Combined Orders

If an order contains both taxable and non-taxable items, shipping charges must be reasonably allocated between taxable and non-taxable items to determine the appropriate tax.

However, tax laws can frequently change, and specific scenarios can have nuances. It is advisable for businesses to consult with a tax professional or refer to the latest guidance from the Idaho State Tax Commission for the most accurate and detailed information.