Got my LLC approved through the state last month. I sell handmade candles online and occasionally at pop-up markets. I haven't registered for any local taxes yet. Is that something I need to do right away, or can I wait until I start making more sales? I'm in Duval County if that matters. I tried looking at the city website but it's confusing.
Local Taxes
My Jacksonville LLC was approved, but I haven't registered for local taxes
If you're in Jacksonville, you likely need a local business tax receipt. I think it's through the city tax collector. I'd look that up before you do more markets.
I went through this a cuple years ago. The state registration is separate from the county/city local business tax. You may also need to register with the Florida Department of Revenue if you're selling tangible goods, even online. That one is often overlooked.
Not an expert but I remember seeing that Jacksonville requires a local business tax receipt for most businesses operating in the city. There might be a small fee and you might need your state registration first. I'd call the tax collector's office, theyy were helpful when I had questions about my own paperwork.
Do you have a physical storefront or just your home? That can affect which local requirements apply.
I dont know about Duval specifically but I'd be careful about waiting. Some places charge penalties if they find out you've been operating without the local tax receipt, even if you didn't know. Maybe just call the city and ask what the penalty situation looks like before things get bigger. Better to have the answer than guess.
The DOR registration is a big one. If you're selling candles, those are taxable goods in Florida. You probably need to collect sales tax and remit it. That's separate from the local business tax receipt. Don't skip that one.
I think the local business tax in Jacksonville is handled by the Duval County Tax Collector. You might need proof of your state LLC registration and maybe a lease or something if you have a physical loc ation. If you're home-based, I'm not sure what they require. Also, if you're at pop-up markets, some of those venues might ask for your local business tax receipt before they let you set up. So it might be worth getting it sooner rather than later.
Just to clarify on the DOR thing, there's a difference between registering as a dealer and actually collecting tax. If you're making very few sales you might not hit thresholds, but it's safer to check. The DOR website has a section on remote sales and marketplace sales.