US Sales Tax Checklist for International Sellers
The five steps international sellers must take before applying for a US sales tax permit, from getting an FEIN to handling paper registrations.
What's inside
Why sales tax applies to you
Why US sales tax is based on where your buyers are, not where you live, so international sellers shipping into the US still need a plan to become compliant.
How to get an FEIN
Step-by-step guidance on getting a federal tax ID from the IRS, including how owners without a Social Security number apply by phone and what to expect on the call.
Registering in a US state
Factors to weigh when choosing a state to register your business in, like how business-friendly it is, its income tax requirements, and its registration and renewal fees.
US bank account and mailing address
How to open a US bank account and get a US mailing address whether or not you are physically in the US, including an online bank option for sellers based abroad.
Handling paper registrations
What to do when a state requires a Social Security number to apply online, including mailing a paper form and paying registration fees with a US check.