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Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS)

Collection of Local Sales Tax

Reference Number: MTAS-732
Reviewed Date: 12/01/2022

Cities and counties formerly had the option of collecting the local option sales tax themselves. This authority was eliminated by the General Assembly, and the law now requires the state Department of Revenue to collect the local sales tax at the same time it collects the state sales tax. T.C.A. § 67-6-710. The Department of Revenue requires that a certified copy of the resolution or ordinance be sent immediately upon adoption to the Department of Revenue if the tax is to be collected by that department. The department has promulgated Local Option Sales and Use Tax Rules and Regulations governing collection. The state will retain a reasonable amount (currently 1.125 percent) to cover its expenses. T.C.A. § 67-6-710(b)(2). The ordinance or resolution will designate the county or municipal officer against whom suit may be brought for recovery if the tax is collected by the state. T.C.A. § 67-6-710(d)(2).