Does Houfy collect, remit, and file my lodging/TOT/guest occupancy tax?
No. Houfy doesn't interfere between guest and host payment transactions. Square and Stripe are payment options integrated with Houfy. If you do connect a Square or Stripe account to your Houfy listing, the funds never touch Houfy's bank account.
Why do some listing platforms collect tax for me?
For the most part, tax collection and remittance by listing sites is because of their voluntary agreements with tax authorities. These are often created as a means of deterring restrictions/bans on short term rentals. In very few cases is a rental platform actually required to collect lodging tax for their hosts.
For example, you sometimes hear hosts complain that only the state tax (or another specific portion) is collected by the site, and they must collect the remaining local county/city taxes separately. This is because the state has agreed for their "portion" to be collected/remitted on behalf of the owner, but the local government has no such agreement.
You may still be required to register and file periodic returns.
When a listing site collects/remits lodging tax on your behalf, they generally do so in one lump sum, with zero identifying host information. Be sure to check your local laws to see if your jurisdiction requires individuals to file a return, regardless if a site collects/remits the taxes.
Even if a site collects tax on the original reservation, additional taxes may need to be collected later.
Let's say an Airbnb guest books and last minute wants to bring their pet, and you collect a $100 pet fee. If your state requires lodging tax on pet fees (such as North Carolina), then you need to make sure you have met all of your lodging tax obligations.
Airbnb sometimes suggests to collect these fees via the resolution center, especially if the reservation has ended and you no longer have the ability to "alter" it. Get it in writing from Airbnb if they state guest payments made to you via the resolution center are exempt from lodging tax.
It's important to thoroughly understand your local tax laws and what is required to be 100% compliant. Never assume a listing site is handling all of your lodging tax obligations. Be sure to register in all applicable jurisdictions, and learn the filing requirements for each one.
If you need any assistance, Avalara is an excellent resource and their site provides a wealth of information. These guys specialize in the collection and remittance of lodging taxes. They are happy to answer any questions, or handle your lodging taxes for you.
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