The Nebraska Sales Tax Form, specifically Form 13, is utilized to certify that certain purchases are exempt from sales tax. This form can be used by purchasers who are buying items for resale, making exempt purchases, or by contractors purchasing building materials. It helps ensure that tax is not applied to eligible transactions, aligning with state tax laws.
Who can issue a Resale Certificate?
A Resale Certificate can be issued by individuals or organizations that regularly purchase property or taxable services for resale in the normal course of their business. This includes wholesalers, retailers, and manufacturers. To be valid, the certificate must include specific information about the purchaser, the seller, and the basis for the exemption.
To properly complete the Nebraska Sales Tax Form, you need to provide:
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The name and address of both the purchaser and seller.
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Whether the certificate is for a single purchase or a blanket certificate.
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The reason for the exemption, which can be for resale, an exempt purchase, or as a contractor.
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A description of the items or services purchased.
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The signature of an authorized person and the date of the certificate.
It’s crucial that all sections are filled out completely to avoid any penalties.
What are the penalties for misuse of the certificate?
Using the Nebraska Sales Tax Form incorrectly can lead to significant penalties. If a purchaser presents the form for a transaction that does not qualify for an exemption, they may face a penalty of $100 or ten times the amount of tax owed, whichever is greater. This penalty applies to each instance of misuse. It is vital to ensure that the certificate is used correctly to avoid these consequences.
How long is a blanket certificate valid?
If a blanket certificate is checked on the form, it remains valid until the purchaser revokes it in writing. This means that the seller can accept the certificate for multiple purchases over time without needing to fill out a new form for each transaction, simplifying the process for both parties.
Once the Nebraska Sales Tax Form is completed, it should be given to the seller at the time of purchase. Sellers are required to keep this certificate as part of their records for auditing purposes. Do not send the completed form to the Nebraska Department of Revenue; it is meant to remain with the seller.