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How to file a Tennessee sales tax return

by TaxJar January 1, 2024

Please note: This blog was originally published in 2019. It’s since been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Tennessee doesn’t make it easy to file sales tax returns, which is why we created TaxJar. TaxJar’s state reports simplify the process of filing a return and can save you hours spent on managing sales tax. We wrote this post as a step-by-step guide for using TaxJar’s report to fill in the info you need to file your Tennessee sales tax return.

If you’d rather not spend time filing a Tennessee sales tax return ever again, enroll in TaxJar AutoFile and let us handle it. Never worry about missing a due dates or remember your state login and password again! Learn how TaxJar AutoFile can solve your sales tax headaches.

What you’ll need

In order to file your sales tax return, it’s important to gather a few key documents and pieces of information. 

Every state has specific requirements. Generally, we recommend:

1. Your TaxJar sales tax report
2. Your Tennessee sales and use tax account number
3. Your state-assigned filing frequency
4. Your Tennessee electronic filing login details (ie: Your Tennessee Department of Revenue Password)
5. Your bank account number and routing number that you’d like to use for sales tax payment

Once you’ve gathered the items above, you’re ready to file your return.

Steps to manually filing a sales tax return in Tennessee

1. Open your TaxJar Report for Tennessee
   
2. Select the Record Filing button at the top of your report
   
3. Use the links on the top right to locate the state’s filing website or download a paper form
   
4. Copy the information from your TaxJar Tennessee Report into the state’s website. View detailed instructions on using TaxJar Reports to file a return including a note on how to file when Marketplace Facilitator Tax collected
5. Remit payment directly with the state
6. Record your filing & payment with TaxJar for organized sales tax records and easy-access at a later date

State resources to help you file your return

Tennessee knows that filing a sales tax return can be hard, so they provide resources to business owners to help teach you how to file. We’ve done the work for you and compiled a list of helpful links, videos and resources to make filing your first sales tax return easier.

Tennessee state information

Need more help? 

We get it. Sometimes it just helps to talk to someone. At TaxJar we provide general education, but we’re not CPAs. As much as we’d like to help, we aren’t able to give specific recommendations or advice for your business. However, we’re pleased to connect you with one of our recommended sales tax partners.

We maintain a list of vetted sales tax experts that can help with all things sales tax from registration assistance to general consulting and advice. These partners are familiar with the ins and outs of e-commerce sales tax and are here to help you.

How TaxJar can help

As you can see, sales tax compliance is challenging. There are so many important details that businesses must be aware of to stay compliant and avoid penalties. TaxJar can make compliance easier, by managing all the different aspects, including keeping you updated on where you have nexus, registering for sales tax permits, and automating sales tax filing and remittance.  To learn more about TaxJar and get started automating your sales tax compliance, start a free, 30-day trial today.

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