Streamlined Sales Tax: Simplifying Multistate Sales Tax Registration, Calculation, and Remittance through SST

Wayfair only heightened the need for cooperation, uniformity, and simplification in sales tax compliance. Post Wayfair, all states created rules obligating remote sellers to collect and remit tax, and while the rules differ a little from state to state, most cast a wide net. This new reality means that many companies have a vastly expanded sales tax compliance obligation and insufficient internal resources to get the job done timely and accurately.

Streamlined sales tax (SST) had been preparing for this moment for the last 20 years. Within the 24 SST member states, there is a centralized sales tax registration system, uniform definitions, requirements, and disclosed practices, and a uniform simplified electronic tax return. SST has also certified a handful of tax technology providers who stand ready to provide automated determination, filing and remittance. For qualifying taxpayers using CSP’s the cost and administrative burden of compliance can be significantly reduced

While the membership in SST has remained at 24 for quite some time, several other states are considering similar models. Today a CSP program also exists in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and programs are either being considered in states such as Illinois, Connecticut, Missouri, and New Mexico.

Listen as our panel of sales tax veterans explain the ins and outs of SST and provide insight as to whether the program might provide the right path to compliance for your organization.

1. What is SST
2. Who are the 24 SST Member States
3. What is a Certified Service Provider
4. Who qualifies to utilize a Certified Service Provider
5. The benefits of utilizing a Certified Service Provider?
6. What other States are Implementing CSP Programs
7. Other factors to consider.

The panel will review these and other critical issues:

• What is the SST and how does it work?
• Utilizing a CSP for sales tax compliance
• Similar models in states not participating in SST
• Qualifications to participate in the SST

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Identify specific states offering alternatives to the Streamlined Sales Tax Program
• Determine how SST simplifies the sales and use tax registration process
• Decide which multistate businesses reap the most benefits by joining the program
• Ascertain specific costs incurred by companies who join the SST Program

• Field of Study: Taxes
• Level of Knowledge: Intermediate
• Advance Preparation: None
• Teaching Method: Seminar/Lecture
• Delivery Method: Group-Internet (via computer)
• Attendance Monitoring Method: Attendance is monitored electronically via a participant's PIN and through a series of attendance verification prompts displayed throughout the program
• Prerequisite: Three years+ business or public firm experience at mid-level within the organization, preparing complex state income tax forms and schedules; supervisory authority over other preparers/accountants. Knowledge and understanding of state taxation of warranties, including mandatory, option and extended warranties; familiarity with sales tax nexus issues.

Strafford Publications, Inc. is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of Accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE Credits. Complaints regarding registered sponsons may be submitted to NASBA through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org.