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Taxes - And Your Online Business

By Wayne Truter
Oct 29, 2009
Doing business online is starting to be a much preferred way of transacting business both by the sellers and the buyers not only because it is way more hassle-free than real shopping but also because it provides a chance for a tax-free business transaction to transpire.

Most people also believe that transacting small sidelines or business transactions through the Internet requires no tax. However, the truth of the matter is, there are actually taxes that are due for every item purchased or sold through the Internet.

Taxes and your online business (if you have one or planning to have one) should work hand in hand for you not to get in trouble with the government.

The changes to be implemented on July 1 are the result of a state law passed in 2007. The certain state law changes the way the taxes are calculated - a major alteration that spurs some headaches and confusion among all online retailers.

Any business, whether online or not, really has to pay its due taxes. Some people would resort to starting an online business thinking that they can evade tax payments if they do so but the truth is, the tax dues will surely catch up with them one way or another.

You should also ask what is required at both state and federal levels. Most communities would actually require you to register a trade name. If you wish or choose to operate from your home, you should ask about the local zoning laws.

The government is strictly issuing penalties for businesses that fail to adhere to the law.

If you have your so-called online business, you should be aware of the rules of the IRS: one is required to pay taxes on all business and personal income and that includes the dough you make selling stuffs on the Internet.As heartbreaking as this may sound, even the simplest business transaction made through the Internet needs to be reported as "income".

If you want to have a successful online business, you should try to keep it as clean and honest as possible. Don?t even try to pull off any illegal or mischievous tricks in your business or it may jeopardize your success.

Sure, the Internet Tax Freedom Act does not impose sales tax on Internet access fees but aside from that, taxes are already imposed.

However, if you are a consistent chap at eBay, then the IRS people might categorize your eBay participation as something that is business oriented and you may end up being required to file a Schedule C form and claim the income that you have spurred.

If the answer to all those questions are yes, then you most definitely are not carrying a hobby, but in fact a business. By finding out that you are already having a mini-online business at eBay or other similar websites, then you have to be responsible enough to pay for your taxes on your income.
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