Numeral is here to help you file and remit any outstanding tax liabilities when you start using our service. Whether you’ve already registered in a state and have past-due filings, or you’re registering for the first time and need to address previous periods, we’ve got you covered.
This article outlines key considerations for deciding whether to backfile or file prospectively for new registrations, along with important information about managing outstanding liabilities.
Setting Your Liability Start Date
If this is your first time registering, it’s important to have a liability start date in mind. During registration, Numeral will report this date to the state as the official start of your tax obligations. If you know you’d like to complete backfilings, please let our sales or onboarding team know during your initial consultation. Once a liability start date is set with a state, changing it can be difficult and may delay back filings.
⚠️ If you were not collecting tax during past periods, you’ll need to remit the tax owed out of pocket, along with any penalties or interest assessed by the state.
Filing Process and Timing
After your registration or transfer is complete, Numeral can start generating your filings. Filings due in the current month will always be prioritized, while back filings are typically processed separately. Please allow 30–60 days for the full process.
If you receive any notices from a state—such as deadlines, intent to levy, or similar communications—please share them with our team. We can help prioritize these filings to ensure timely resolution.
Penalties and Interest
Penalties and interest vary by state and depend on how long a filing has been delinquent. You can usually expect some amount of penalties and interest on late returns. Some states require payment of penalties upfront, while others may only require taxes.
Numeral can guide you on whether penalty waivers are an option and help clear up your account. Any remaining balance, however, will be your responsibility, as these periods were delinquent before you partnered with Numeral.
Check out our State-by-State Sales Tax Guide for detailed information by state, including penalties and interest considerations in higher-risk states.
💬 Questions? Reach out to our team anytime via the messaging widget in your Numeral dashboard.