What is the ST-12B form used for?
The ST-12B form is a Purchaser’s Claim for Sales Tax Refund Affidavit. It is used by individuals or businesses in Georgia to request a refund of sales tax that they believe they have overpaid on purchases. This form helps document the claim and provides necessary details for the Georgia Department of Revenue to process the refund request.
Who needs to fill out the ST-12B form?
Any purchaser who has paid sales tax on a transaction in Georgia and believes they are entitled to a refund can fill out the ST-12B form. This includes individuals, businesses, or any entity that has made a taxable purchase and seeks to recover the sales tax paid.
What information is required on the ST-12B form?
The form requires various details, including the name of the purchaser, their sales tax number or Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), the dealer's name and sales tax number (if known), the date of purchase, invoice number, gross amount of the sale excluding tax, and the amount of tax paid. Additionally, the form asks for information about whether the purchaser has requested a refund from the dealer and the dealer's response.
Do I need to attach any documents to the ST-12B form?
Yes, it is necessary to attach certain documents. You should include a copy of your request for a sales tax refund sent to the dealer and proof of mailing or delivery of that request. These documents support your claim and are essential for the review process.
What if the dealer has already refunded some of the sales tax?
If the dealer has refunded any portion of the sales tax, you must indicate this on the ST-12B form. You will need to specify the amount refunded. This information is crucial for the Georgia Department of Revenue to accurately process your claim and ensure that you do not receive a refund for the same amount more than once.
What happens if I do not provide accurate information on the ST-12B form?
Providing false or inaccurate information on the ST-12B form can have serious consequences. Under penalties of perjury, you affirm that the statements made in the claim are true. If any information is found to be incorrect, it could lead to criminal prosecution, as well as the requirement to repay any refunded tax, along with potential interest and penalties.
Is there a deadline for submitting the ST-12B form?
While the specific deadline may vary, it is generally advisable to submit your refund claim as soon as possible after discovering the overpayment. Delays in filing may affect your eligibility for a refund, so it is best to check the Georgia Department of Revenue’s guidelines for any specific timeframes related to sales tax refunds.
Do I need a notary to sign the ST-12B form?
Yes, the ST-12B form must be notarized. After completing the form, you must sign it in front of a notary public. The notary will then provide their signature and seal, which is a necessary step to validate your affidavit and ensure its authenticity.
Where do I send the completed ST-12B form?
Once you have completed and notarized the ST-12B form, it should be attached to Form ST-12 and sent to the Georgia Department of Revenue. The mailing address for the Taxpayer Services Division is 1800 Century Blvd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30345-3205. Make sure to keep a copy of all documents for your records.
Can I track the status of my sales tax refund after submitting the ST-12B form?
Yes, after submitting your claim, you can inquire about the status of your sales tax refund. It is recommended to contact the Georgia Department of Revenue directly at their customer service number, 1(877) 423-6711, for updates on your claim. Keeping your claim number handy will help facilitate the inquiry process.