How to Get a Seller’s Permit in Iowa

  • Compliance
Learn how to register your business in the state and obtain a sales tax permit in Iowa with our step-by-step guide.
Starting a business in Iowa is an exciting venture, but it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements that come with it. A common area of confusion for many new business owners is understanding the need for a Sales and Use Tax Permit in Iowa, also known as a seller’s permit. This permit allows you to collect sales tax on taxable products and services from customers in Iowa.
This blog will guide you through each step of applying for a sales tax permit, with clear instructions to help you and your business begin collecting sales tax effortlessly.
  Related Topics:

Who Needs a Seller’s Permit in Iowa?

A business must register for a sales tax permit in Iowa if:

How to Register for a Seller’s Permit in Iowa?

When applying for an Iowa Sales Tax Permit, you can use the online application process on the Iowa Department Of Revenue website to complete your sales tax registration.
 

1. Where to Apply for a Seller’s Permit in Iowa?

The first step to register for a sales tax permit online is to go to GovConnectIowa website and click on the “Register a New Business” found in the Businesses section.
To register for a seller’s permit, you will need to create an online user profile with a username and password. Click on the title “Login or create a GovConnectIowa account to register a new business.” then click on “Create Logon.”
You will then follow through the prompts that walk you through your registration process and provide the necessary information. Make sure you select your sales and use tax filing options correctly.
In case you don’t have a physical presence in Iowa, click no. In case your gross sales in Iowa are above $100,000, click yes.
During your registration process, you will create an online login account with the state. Once your online user profile is created, you can start registering for a seller’s permit in Iowa.
 

2. What Information Do You Need to Get a Seller’s Permit in Iowa?

To successfully acquire a seller’s permit in Iowa, it’s important to prepare and provide specific information and documents. The following is a list of the necessary information and documents required to register a sales tax permit in Iowa:
  • Business Identification Information: Legal Business Name, Physical Address, Mailing Address 
  • Business Entity Structure (i.e., Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Subchapter S Corp., Sorporation, LLC, etc.)
  • Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN or FEIN)
  • Name, Address, and SSN of Owners, Partners, or Officers
  • Business Activity Details: Date & State of Incorporation, Start Date with the State of Iowa (Nexus Start Date), Estimated Yearly Sales Tax Liability in Iowa
  • NAICS Code
 

3. How Much are the Fees for Applying for and Renewing a Seller’s Permit in Iowa?

Registering for a sales tax permit in Iowa is free, and you won’t need to provide payment details to acquire your permit. The state charges a non-refundable registration fee.
Iowa sales tax permit does not need to be renewed and remains valid for as long as the business exists without any changes in ownership or structure.
 

4. What are Other Ways to Register for a Seller’s Permit in Iowa?

  • Use TaxHero. Registering for a seller’s permit, mainly when it involves multiple permits, can be a tedious and time-consuming task requiring much effort. Let the experts at TaxHero save you from this hassle, and let us handle the registration process in all states where you have nexus as part of our all-inclusive sales tax service.
  • Paper Application: You have the option to register via mail by completing Iowa Business Tax Permit Registration, 78-005. Although, it’s suggested by the state of Iowa that you register online instead.
 

What’s Next?

After your online submission, you will be redirected to a confirmation page to show your request has been submitted.
Keep a copy of the printable view to serve as proof of your registration until you receive your permit in the mail.
Take note that the waiting time for your account number, IDR ID, and instructions on how to file and pay taxes may take 1 business day to at least 6 weeks. If you want to access your permit letter electronically, you can view it under the View Letters section in your GovConnectIowa account.
Obtaining a sales tax permit requires you to collect sales tax for eligible sales in Iowa. The document will also specify your filing frequency for sales tax returns and due dates.
If you ever encounter any difficulties, have any questions, or prefer TaxHero to manage these tasks on your behalf, don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact us today.