Treasury Division
Frequently Asked Questions
Sales Tax - Returns , Due Dates, and Filing Info
Where can I get Denver sales tax returns?
You can:
· Call the Taxpayer Service Unit at 720-865-7075
· Request them by fax at 720-865-7080
· Request them by email at treasinfo@ci.denver.co.us
· Pick them up in person at 144 W. Colfax Avenue
top
When is Denver sales tax due?
Denver sales tax is due the 20th of the month following the period in which the liability was incurred. The period is determined by the filing frequency.
top
What determines the filing frequency?
The filing frequency is determined by the average amount of use tax due each month. If no payment history exists, an industry standard is used.
NOTE: Bars, liquor stores, restaurants, caterers and street vendors are required to file monthly returns, irrespective of sales tax volume.
Frequency Average due each month
Monthly $300.00 or more
Quarterly $15.01 to $299.99
Annual $15.00 or less
top
Can I file an annual sales/use tax return?
You can, if the average amount of Denver sales tax collected and/or use tax due is less than $15/month.
top
Does Denver expect me to remit Denver sales tax before payment is received from my customers?
Yes. Tax is due for the period in which the sale occurs, even if full payment was not received in that period (credit sales, lay-away, etc.)
top
Can I pay Denver sales tax due with a credit card?
Not at this time. Denver accepts personal checks, certified checks, money orders, or you can pay in person with cash at 144 W. Colfax Avenue .
Do not mail cash.
top
When do I file an amended Denver sales tax return?
You need to complete an amended Denver sales tax return when an error is discovered on a previously filed return.
top
What if a Denver sales tax return is filed after the due date?
A 15% penalty is charged on the amount of tax that is paid late, with a minimum penalty of $25.00.
NOTE: The minimum penalty is due on all Denver tax returns that are filed late, even if no tax is due.
Interest, at the rate of 1% each month or a fraction thereof, is charged on the amount of the tax that is paid late, calculated from the time the return was due to the date that it is paid.
The 0.5% vendor’s discount, usually calculated on Line 8 of the return, is not allowed.
top
How do I calculate the penalty and interest due on a Denver sales tax return filed late?
Penalty: Multiply the total tax due by 0.15. If the answer is zero or less than $25.00, pay the minimum penalty of $25.00.
Interest: Multiply the total tax due by 0.01. Multiply that answer by the number of months (or fraction of a month) between the date the return was due and the date payment will be made. Payment date is determined by the postmark date, if mailed.
Example: If a return was due on April 20, but payment was not made until May 23, 2% interest would be due (one whole month, and one fraction of a month).
top
What is a “non-filer” fee?
The $25.00 minimum penalty, charged for failure to file a return, even if no tax is due.
top
What if I have a Denver sales tax license, but don’t file a Denver sales tax return?
The collection process will begin, starting with the issuance of an estimated assessment, based either on the average tax you previously reported or on a standard for your industry.
NOTE: Even if no tax is due, the minimum $25.00 penalty will be charged.
top
|