Quick Answer: This blog provides instructions on how to file and pay sales tax returns in Tennessee using the online TNTAP website. Tennessee only has one Sales and Use Tax form to report sales tax.
Once you have an active sales tax permit in Tennessee you will need to begin filing sales tax returns. Not sure if you need a permit in Tennessee No problem. Check out our blog, Do You Need to Get a Sales Tax Permit in Tennessee?
Also, If you would rather ask someone else to handle your Tennessee filings, our team at TaxValet can handle that for you with our Done-for-You Sales Tax Service. We specialize in eliminating the stress and hassle of sales tax.
We will begin with simple step-by-step instructions for logging on to the website in order to file your sales tax return for Tennessee.
Step 1: Follow this link, https://tntap.tn.gov/eservices/_/, and you will come to this screen:
Step 2: Sign in with your username and password.
If you do not have a username and password, then your first step is setting that up. Your username and password are generally created when you submit registration paperwork for a sales tax permit.
Step 3: You will be directed to your dashboard for that state. Once you come to the dashboard, select the account for which you want to file a return by clicking the “Sales and Use Tax” button to the left of the proper account type.
Step 4: Next, you will be directed to this page.
As you can see by the filing periods listed, this business files sales tax returns monthly. Click into the correct period. Then, navigate to the right side of the screen and select “File or amend a return.”
On the next screen, note If you are submitting a file provided by your software vendor and answer appropriately.
Step 5: This is the step where it starts to get interesting. You will now be answering questions and entering your sales data. If you have exemptions enter them into schedule A.
Step 6: Next you will enter your local taxes. Select “Click Here” to enter. You may add additional counties/municipalities as needed.
If you need to file a schedule C, make that selection and enter your data.
Step 7: You are now at the final step in filing your sales tax return!
Next, you will see a screen with a summary of all of the data that you have entered. Make sure to double-check that your numbers are correct, then submit your return.
Hooray! You now have filed your sales tax return!
Make sure to save the confirmation number that comes up on the screen. We also recommend saving and/or printing a copy of your return for your records.
If you would like to make a payment, now is the time to do so. From the home screen select the account you want to make the payment to. Select make a payment under “I Want To.”
Select the payment type. For this example, I am choosing ACH Debit. Enter your banking information, the date you want to make the payment, and the amount. Check the box and click “Submit.”
You have now made a payment! Be sure to save the confirmation number for your records.
If you forgot to print or save a copy of your sales tax return or payment, don’t fret. You can easily go back into the period to view and/or print the return that you just filed. Go back to the dashboard and click “Submissions.” Then select the return/payment you want to access. Under “I Want To” click “Print Submission.”
Lastly, here is the contact information for the state if case you end up stuck or have questions along the way. You can contact the state of Tennessee directly by phone at (800) 342-1003.
Instead, if you are looking for a team of experts to handle your sales tax returns for you each month, you should check out our Done-for-You Sales Tax Service. Feel free to contact us if you’re interested in becoming a client!