How to File Sales Tax Returns

TLDR: Once you’ve collected sales tax, you’re responsible for filing a return and remitting it to each state you’re registered in. Most states require monthly, quarterly, or annual filings depending on your revenue. Even if you owe $0, you must still file to avoid penalties. doola can handle sales tax filings across all states so you stay compliant without the stress.

Why Sales Tax Filing Matters

Collecting sales tax is only half the job. If you don’t file and remit it on time, you risk:

• Late penalties
• Interest charges
• Notices from state tax authorities

Filing properly and on schedule is essential to keeping your business clean and ready to scale.

Step 1: Know Your Filing Frequency

When you register for a sales tax permit in any state, the state tax authority will assign you a filing frequency. This is usually based on your total revenue.

Typical frequencies include:

• Monthly (for high-volume businesses)
• Quarterly (most common)
• Annually (for low-volume sellers)

You’ll receive this info when your registration is approved.

Step 2: Gather the Data You Need

Before filing your return, make sure you have:

• Total revenue per state
• Total taxable sales per state
• Total sales tax collected

If you sell across multiple channels (e.g. Shopify, Amazon), you’ll need to consolidate this data to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: File the Return and Remit Payment

Each state has an online tax portal. To file:

1. Log in to the portal
2. Enter the required sales data
3. Submit payment for the amount owed

Most states accept ACH transfers, debit, or credit card payments. Be sure to file before the due date to avoid late fees.

Step 4: File Even If You Owe $0

One of the most overlooked rules in sales tax compliance is this:

You must file a return even if no tax was collected.

These are called zero-dollar returns. Missing one can still trigger late notices, penalties, or even the suspension of your tax account.

How doola Helps With Sales Tax Filing

Filing sales tax in one state is manageable—but doing it across multiple states? That’s where things get time-consuming and risky.

doola takes care of the entire process:

• Tracks where you’re required to file
• Prepares and files sales tax returns on time
• Consolidates data across all your platforms
• Helps you stay audit-proof and stress-free

Whether you’re filing in one state or twenty, doola ensures everything is handled so you can stay focused on your business.

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FAQs

How often do I have to file sales tax returns?

It depends on the state. Most businesses file monthly, quarterly, or annually based on sales volume. You’ll find out your frequency when you register.

What if I didn’t collect any sales tax this period?

You must still file a zero-dollar return. Not filing at all—even with no tax collected—can result in penalties.

What data do I need to file sales tax?

You need total revenue, taxable sales, and total sales tax collected, broken down by state.

Can doola handle my sales tax filings?

Yes. doola manages multi-state sales tax filings, keeps your business compliant, and submits everything on time—so you don’t have to.