File your sales tax return and record sales tax payments in QuickBooks Online

Track your sales tax amounts and payment due dates in QuickBooks Online so you can avoid late returns and extra fees. Once it’s time to file, you can use your up-to-date QuickBooks info to fill out your sales tax form.

Prerequisites

To get started, track your sales tax in QuickBooks Online. You can track it manually or with our automated system.

We’re rolling out the automated sales tax system for all QuickBooks users. Check if you have the option to switch. If not, don’t worry. It should be available to you soon.

If you still use manual sales tax, here’s how to manage sales tax payments in QuickBooks Online.

File and pay your sales tax

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Step 1: Review what you owe

Make sure everything is correct before you file.

1. Go to All apps , then Sales Tax, then Overview (Take me there).
2. Select Review sales tax.
   • If you need to file an older return, use the Tax Period Date ▼ dropdown to select a tax period or custom date range.
3. Make sure everything looks right.
   • If you need to add an adjustment for things like credits, discounts, or corrections, select + Add an adjustment.
   • Select View tax liability report to see more details about what you owe
4. Take note of your gross sales, nontaxable and taxable sales, tax due, and adjustment amount (if you added one). You’ll need these numbers later when you fill out your sales tax return form.

Step 2: File your return with the right tax agency

After you review your sales tax, you can either e-file your tax return or file by mail.

E-file your sales tax return

You can use our sales tax e-file service (available in some states). You can also file directly with your tax agency online, and then enter your sales tax payment in QuickBooks to keep your sales tax info current.

1. Go to your tax agency’s website to file your return online.
   • If you haven’t already, you might have to sign up for your state’s e-filing service.
2. Fill out and complete your sales tax return form.
   • Refer to the gross sales, taxable sales, and sales tax due amounts you took note of in Step 1.

Mail your sales tax return

Most states encourage businesses to e-file. If you can’t file online, check your tax agency’s website for more info on how to mail your return.

Correct a sales tax return

QuickBooks Online doesn't support amended sales/use tax reporting. If you need to correct a filing, contact your tax agency.

To find your state's tax website, visit the IRS State Government Websites page.

Step 3: Record your sales tax payment in QuickBooks

After you file your sales tax return, record your payments in QuickBooks to zero out your sales tax payable. This keeps your sales tax info in QuickBooks up to date.

1. Go to All apps , then Sales Tax, then Overview (Take me there).
2. Find the return you just filed, then select Review sales tax.
   • If you paid for an older return, use the Tax Period Date dropdown menu to select a tax period or custom date range.
3. Select Record payment.
4. Add these payment details:
   • Tax amount
   • Payment date
   • Bank account
5. Select Record payment.
6. Select Back to sales tax center.

Next steps

• If you filed online: Go to your tax agency's website to check your return’s filing status.
• If you filed by mail: Contact your tax agency directly to get an update on your return.

Related links

• Manage sales tax payments
• Check how much sales tax you owe