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Department of Taxation

Rev. 12/19

Ohio Universal Sales Tax Return (UST 1) Instructions

Note: This return is only to be used by taxpayers that have

been granted permission by the Ohio Department of Taxation to file by paper. All other filers must file electronically through Ohio Business Gateway at gateway.ohio.gov or Ohio TeleFile at

1-800-697-0440.

Sales tax is generally collected at the rate in effect in the county where the consumer takes possession of the item sold or receives the benefit of the service performed. However, see Ohio Revised Code 5739.033. While most sales occur at the vendor’s place of business, some taxable transactions may occur in a county different from the vendor’s place of business. These instructions will guide you through the process of filing a return that covers many taxing jurisdictions.

STEP 1: Complete the back of Ohio UST 1 (short) or pages 2-4 of Ohio UST 1 (long).

County name – If not preprinted, enter the first four letters of the county name for those counties where you have made taxable sales, or delivered items or services.

County code – Enter the two-digit code that applies to the county name. Refer to our website at tax.ohio.gov for county names, code numbers and rates.

Taxable sales – Enter the total amount of reportable taxable sales for each county in which you have locations or where reportable taxable sales were made. Note: Do not include sales of motor vehicles, titled watercraft and/or titled outboard motors that were reported to Ohio clerks of courts or the Ohio Department of Taxation on the Nonresident Watercraft Return.

Tax liability – Enter the total (combined state and local tax) amount of tax due for those reportable taxable sales indicated. Note: DO not include taxes on sales of motor vehicles, titled watercraft and/or titled outboard motors that have been paid to Ohio clerks of courts.

Note: If any sales or tax figure in the county section of the UST 1 is negative, shade the negative sign (“–”) in the box immediately preceding the sales or tax figure.

Total each column and enter the totals on lines 5 and 6 on the front side of the return. The totals cannot be negative numbers. If those totals are negative, file an Application for Refund (Ohio ST AR) and follow the instructions for filing a refund claim.

STEP 2: Complete the front side of the return, lines 1-9.

Line 1 – Gross sales: Enter total sales of tangible personal prop- erty and selected services. Marketplace sellers should include sales made via a marketplace. Do not include the actual sales tax charged. Qualifying bad debts may reduce gross sales. See Tax Commissioner Rule 5703-9-44 for details. Gross sales may be reduced by returned taxable sales on which the full purchase price and tax were refunded or credited to the purchaser. If the full purchase price and tax were not refunded on taxable sales, the law does not permit any reduction from gross sales. Gross sales may also be reduced by cash or term discounts claimed to reduce the taxable price of an item or service, provided that the tax was charged and paid on the full price of the item on the previous return period, and the customer exercised the discount option when pay- ment was made.

Line 2 – Exempt sales: Enter the total exempt sales. This includes, but is not limited to, sales to holders of direct payment permits and sales covered by valid exemption certificates. In addition to exempt sales, include all sales made via a marketplace facilitator as long as the marketplace facilitator collected and remitted sales tax on your behalf. Note: Exempt sales may not be larger than gross sales.

Line 3 – Net taxable sales: Subtract line 2 from line 1 to determine net taxable sales.

Line 4 – Sales where tax was paid to the clerks of courts:

Motor vehicle dealers – Enter the total sales (purchase price or tax base) of motor vehicles for the reporting period for which you have receipts from clerks of courts showing tax paid. This includes automobiles, trucks, trailers and other motor vehicles that are re- quired to be titled. Do not enter the tax paid to the clerks of courts on this line.

Watercraft/outboard motor dealers/sellers – Enter the total sales (purchase price or tax base) of watercraft and outboard motors for which you have receipts from clerks of courts showing tax paid. This includes watercraft and outboard motors that require an Ohio title but does not include documented watercraft, watercraft under 14 feet, outboard motors under 10 horsepower and nontitled trailers. Do not enter the tax paid to the clerks of courts on this line.

Line 5 – Reportable taxable sales: Subtract line 4 from line 3 to determine reportable taxable sales. This is required to equal the total taxable sales reported in the county section of the return.

Line 6 – Tax liability: Enter the greater of the tax collected or that which should have been collected. This is required to equal the total tax liability reported in the county section of the return. Nega- tive numbers are not allowed on lines 1 through 6 of Ohio UST 1. If those totals are negative, file an Application for Refund (Ohio ST AR) and follow the instructions for filing a refund claim.

Line 7 – Discount: Enter .75 of 1% (.0075) of line 6 if Ohio UST 1 and full payment are postmarked on or before the due date.

Line 8 – Additional charge: If the return is filed after the due date or without full payment of the amount due, enter $10. However, certain billing or delinquent programs may apply an additional charge of $50 or 10% of the tax, whichever is greater. If the tax is paid late, interest from the due date of the tax will accrue until the date of assessment or payment, whichever comes first. Taxpayers

should not attempt to report interest on their sales and use tax returns. Instead, interest found due by the Ohio Department of Taxation will be automatically billed.

Line 9 – Net amount due: Line 6 minus line 7 or line 6 plus line 8. Make remittance payable to the Ohio Treasurer of State, write your vendor’s license number and reporting period on your remittance, and mail to the Ohio Department of Taxation, P.O. Box 16560, Columbus, OH 43216-6560.

Note: If payment due is $1.00 or less, no payment is required. Any refunds (must submit Ohio ST AR) $1.00 or less will not be approved.

STOP

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STEP 3 – Proceed only if you are required to make payment by electronic funds transfer (EFT) and have made the proper acceler- ated payments. If payment of balance due is made by EFT, place an X in the EFT box to indicate how the payment was made.

Line 10 – Accelerated payments made: Enter the amount of the accelerated payment made for the month of the reporting period.

Line 11 – Accelerated payment for next reporting period: Enter the amount of the accelerated payment needed for the next reporting period (the period after the period of the current return). For example, if you are filing the January return in February, you are making the accelerated payment for February. This amount must be included in the payment on line 12 and will be credited to that month.

Tip: You still have the option to make the accelerated payment separate from the balance due for the tax return. If you do so, do not complete line 11. Any amount stated on this line will be transferred to the next period, which may leave the current return underpaid and result in the issuance of a billing notice. For example, if the acceler- ated payment and the balance due for the tax return are paid by one EFT transfer, then line 11 needs to be filled out with the amount of the accelerated payment intended for the next reporting period. If, on the other hand, the accelerated payment and the balance due for the tax return are paid by two separate EFT transfers, then line 11 should be left blank.

Line 12 – Balance due: The amount on line 9, less the amount on line 10, plus the amount on line 11. Pay this electronically by using one of the several payment options below.

You can pay your balance due by:

Paper check submitted with the paper return (unless required to pay by EFT)

Ohio Business Gateway, with the filing of the return (gateway.ohio.gov)

EFT through the Ohio Treasurer of State (eft.tos.ohio.gov)

Ohio Telefile – 1-800-697-0440. Refer to TeleFile instructions.

You can make accelerated payments electronically by:

Ohio Business Gateway (gateway.ohio.gov)

EFT through the Ohio Treasurer of State (eft.tos.ohio.gov)

Ohio TeleFile – 1-800-697-0440. Refer to TeleFile instructions.

For Cumulative Filers Only

It is important to note that cumulative filers are still required to ob- tain and maintain an active vendor’s license for each fixed place of business. Cumulative filers must report taxable sales and tax liability on a county-by-county basis, not on a location-by-location basis. However, your records must include a location-by-location breakdown of sales and tax activity for audit purposes.

Amended Returns

If an amended return is necessary due to a change in the informa- tion provided on the original return, check the box on the front of the return to signify that this is an amended return. If you need to file an amended return for a period that contained an acceler- ated payment on line 11, you cannot change the amount originally stated on this line.

If an amended return creates an overpayment on the return period, you must complete an Application for Refund, Ohio ST AR. The refund application with the amended return and back-up docu- mentation should be sent to the address on the refund application.

Proper Completion of Your Returns

To ensure that your sales and tax information is properly captured and that your account is properly credited, follow these guidelines when preparing your returns.

1.Use blue or black ink. Do not use pencil.

2.Make hand-written characters as close to the following example as possible.

3.If you had no sales for the reporting period, indicate this by show- ing zeros (00) in the cents column of line 1. Do not use straight lines. Tax returns must be timely filed even if no tax is due.

4.Other than as stated in number three, above, leave other lines blank if they do not apply.

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Document Properties

Fact Name Details
Purpose The UST 1 form is used to report sales tax for businesses in Ohio that have received permission to file by paper.
Filing Requirement Only taxpayers granted permission by the Ohio Department of Taxation can file using this form; others must file electronically.
Governing Law This form is governed by the Ohio Revised Code 5739.033, which outlines sales tax collection requirements.
Sales Tax Collection Sales tax is collected based on the county where the consumer takes possession of the item or receives the service.
Negative Numbers Negative figures are not allowed on key lines of the UST 1 form. If they appear, an Application for Refund must be filed instead.
Payment Options Payments can be made via paper check, Ohio Business Gateway, EFT, or Ohio TeleFile, depending on the circumstances.

Documents used along the form

When filing the UST 1 Ohio form, several other documents may be necessary to ensure compliance with Ohio tax regulations. Each of these forms serves a specific purpose and can facilitate the process of reporting sales and use tax accurately. Below is a list of commonly used forms that you might encounter alongside the UST 1.

  • Ohio ST AR (Application for Refund): This form is used to request a refund of sales tax overpayments. If you find that you have paid more tax than necessary, this application allows you to reclaim those funds.
  • Ohio ST 4 (Exemption Certificate): This certificate is essential for documenting exempt sales. It verifies that certain transactions are not subject to sales tax, such as sales to non-profit organizations or government entities.
  • Ohio ST 10 (Direct Payment Permit): Holders of this permit can purchase items without paying sales tax at the point of sale. Instead, they report and pay the tax directly to the state.
  • Ohio ST 12 (Sales Tax Return for Motor Vehicle Dealers): Specifically for motor vehicle dealers, this form is used to report sales and tax collected on motor vehicle transactions.
  • Ohio ST 1 (Sales and Use Tax Registration): This document registers your business for sales tax purposes. It is essential for businesses that sell taxable goods or services in Ohio.
  • Ohio IT 1040 (Individual Income Tax Return): While not directly related to sales tax, this form may be necessary for individuals who operate a business and need to report income from their sales activities.
  • Ohio BTA (Board of Tax Appeals) Form: If you disagree with a tax assessment, this form allows you to appeal the decision made by the Ohio Department of Taxation.
  • Iowa Transfer-on-Death Deed form: This form simplifies the process of bequeathing real estate to beneficiaries, making it a valuable document for estate planning. For more details, visit the Transfer-on-Death Deed form.
  • Ohio JFS 07038 (Tax Exempt Organization Certification): This form certifies that an organization is exempt from sales tax, often used by non-profits and charitable organizations.
  • Ohio ST 1A (Sales Tax Exemption Certificate for Resale): This certificate is used by businesses purchasing goods for resale, allowing them to buy without paying sales tax upfront.
  • Ohio ST 11 (Sales Tax Return for Retailers): Retailers may use this form to report sales tax collected from customers, similar to the UST 1 but tailored for specific types of retail transactions.

Understanding these forms and their purposes can greatly assist in navigating the sales tax reporting process in Ohio. By ensuring that you have the necessary documentation, you can minimize errors and streamline your tax compliance efforts.

Guidelines on Filling in Ust 1 Ohio

Filling out the UST 1 Ohio form can seem daunting, but with a clear understanding of the steps involved, it can be manageable. This form is essential for reporting sales tax and ensuring compliance with Ohio tax regulations. Below are the steps to help you complete the form accurately.

  1. Complete the back of the Ohio UST 1 (short) or pages 2-4 of Ohio UST 1 (long).
    • Enter the first four letters of the county name where you made taxable sales or delivered items/services.
    • Input the two-digit county code that corresponds to the county name.
    • List the total amount of reportable taxable sales for each county.
    • Calculate and enter the total tax liability for those sales.
    • If any sales or tax figure is negative, shade the negative sign in the box preceding that figure.
    • Total each column and enter the totals on lines 5 and 6 on the front side of the return.
  2. Complete the front side of the return, lines 1-9.
    • Line 1: Enter total gross sales of tangible personal property and selected services.
    • Line 2: Enter total exempt sales, including sales made via a marketplace facilitator.
    • Line 3: Subtract line 2 from line 1 to determine net taxable sales.
    • Line 4: Enter total sales of motor vehicles or watercraft for which tax was paid to clerks of courts.
    • Line 5: Subtract line 4 from line 3 to find reportable taxable sales.
    • Line 6: Enter the greater of the tax collected or the amount that should have been collected.
    • Line 7: Enter the discount if the return and payment are postmarked on or before the due date.
    • Line 8: Enter an additional charge if the return is filed late.
    • Line 9: Calculate the net amount due by subtracting line 7 from line 6 or adding line 8 to line 6.
  3. Proceed if required to make payment by electronic funds transfer (EFT).
    • Line 10: Enter the amount of the accelerated payment made for the reporting period.
    • Line 11: Enter the amount of the accelerated payment needed for the next reporting period.
    • Line 12: Calculate the balance due by adjusting line 9 with lines 10 and 11.
  4. Make your payment.
    • Pay by paper check with the return or electronically through various options listed in the instructions.
    • Ensure to write your vendor’s license number and reporting period on your remittance.
  5. If necessary, complete an amended return.
    • Check the box on the front of the return to signify that it is amended.
    • Submit an Application for Refund if an overpayment occurs.

After completing the form, double-check all entries for accuracy. Timely filing is crucial, even if no tax is due. Following these steps will help ensure that your UST 1 Ohio form is filled out correctly and submitted on time.

Common mistakes

Filling out the UST 1 Ohio form can be a straightforward process, but mistakes can easily occur. One common error is failing to include all necessary sales information. Taxpayers often overlook reporting taxable sales made in different counties. It is essential to accurately enter the total amount of reportable taxable sales for each county where sales occurred. Neglecting this step can lead to discrepancies and potential penalties.

Another frequent mistake involves the treatment of exempt sales. Some filers mistakenly report exempt sales that exceed their gross sales. This is not permissible, as exempt sales must always be less than or equal to gross sales. Ensuring that these figures align is crucial to avoid complications with the Ohio Department of Taxation.

Incorrectly calculating net taxable sales is another issue that arises. Taxpayers should carefully subtract exempt sales from gross sales to determine the net taxable sales. Errors in this calculation can affect the overall tax liability reported on the form. It's advisable to double-check these numbers to ensure accuracy.

Many individuals also fail to follow instructions regarding the reporting of sales where tax was paid to clerks of courts. This includes motor vehicles and watercraft. Filers sometimes enter the tax amount paid instead of the total sales amount, which is not in accordance with the guidelines. Correctly reporting the sales price is essential for compliance.

Additionally, mistakes can occur with the tax liability calculation. Taxpayers must report the greater of the tax collected or the tax that should have been collected. Misunderstanding this requirement can lead to underreporting or overreporting, which may trigger audits or penalties.

Another common error involves the treatment of negative numbers. If any sales or tax figures are negative, filers must shade the negative sign in the appropriate box. Failing to do so can result in the form being rejected or processed incorrectly. It is important to follow this instruction precisely.

Some individuals neglect to indicate if they are making payments electronically, particularly if required to do so. This omission can cause confusion and delays in processing the return. Properly marking the EFT box is necessary to ensure that the payment method is clear.

Moreover, many people do not understand the implications of accelerated payments. If a taxpayer makes an accelerated payment for the next reporting period, they must be careful not to leave line 11 blank if they are filing a combined payment. This could lead to underpayment issues, resulting in further complications.

Finally, failing to follow the guidelines for completing the return can lead to errors. For instance, using pencil instead of blue or black ink can cause issues with readability and processing. Adhering to the specific instructions about how to fill out the form is essential for ensuring that the return is accepted without problems.

FAQ

  1. What is the UST 1 Ohio form used for?

    The UST 1 Ohio form, known as the Ohio Universal Sales Tax Return, is primarily used by businesses to report and pay sales tax collected from customers. It is specifically designed for taxpayers who have received permission from the Ohio Department of Taxation to file their returns on paper. Most businesses are required to file electronically, but this form provides an alternative for those who qualify.

  2. How do I complete the UST 1 Ohio form?

    To complete the UST 1 form, start by filling out the back of the short form or pages 2-4 of the long form. You will need to enter the county name and code where you made taxable sales. Next, report the total taxable sales for each county. Remember not to include sales of motor vehicles or certain other items that are reported separately. After that, complete the front side of the return by entering gross sales, exempt sales, and calculating your net taxable sales. Finally, determine your tax liability and any discounts or additional charges before submitting the form.

  3. What if I made no sales during the reporting period?

    If you had no sales during the reporting period, you should still file your return. Indicate this by entering zeros (00) in the cents column of line 1 on the UST 1 form. It’s essential to file the return on time, even if no tax is due. This ensures compliance with Ohio tax regulations.

  4. What should I do if I need to amend my UST 1 Ohio form?

    If you need to amend your UST 1 form due to changes in the information you initially provided, check the box on the front of the return to indicate that it is an amended return. Keep in mind that if your amendment leads to an overpayment, you must submit an Application for Refund (Ohio ST AR) along with the amended return and any supporting documentation. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any delays in processing your amendment.