Legal Question in Tax Law in Alabama

Re: out of state purchases

In every state where there is a sales tax, there is a little-known corollary called a "use tax." In theory, every time you purchase something out of state that would have been subject to sales tax if sold inside your state, you are obliged to pay "use tax" at the same rate that would have been applicable to an in-state sale.

In practice, very few people are even aware that they have this obligation, and darned near nobody (except businesses) pays this tax. Bad luck that your situation somehow came to the notice of your tax authorities. However, "you're busted," and must pay the tax.

Re: out of state purchases

1. It's true that there's a "use" tax, as well as a "sales" tax. However, in some states, you s/b able to take a credit for the "sales tax" you already paid out of state for the "use" tax you now owe. Ck. with the Tenn. authorites! It might make the total Ten. tax be near $0. Good luck!!