Photo Copyright 2007 by Tony Klimas
I had a shocking experience the other day. I've been really busy lately, and I forgot to file my Florida sales and use tax return for my photography business. I collect very little sales tax, doing most of my business over the web, so it just slipped my mind. I was reminded by an automated voice mail that I received asking me to call an 800 number. I thought to myself, "oops!" "I can't believe I forgot to file my return. I think there is a $50 penalty. Oh well, I better call them and face the music."
And so even though the recording asked me to have my state tax ID number handy (and I was 1000 miles away from my state tax ID), I gave them a call. And get this.... A friendly woman answered on the first ring. She explained to me that it was okay that I didn't have my tax ID, she could use my social security number. She looked up my account. She explained to me I missed the deadline, but that if I had no tax collected I could file a zero return over the phone with no paperwork. I asked her about the fine. She told me they will forgive two late payments a year so don't worry about it. She asked if there was anything else she could help me with and then thanked me for calling. I could not believe my ears. No waiting. No rudeness. No baloney. I was floored! I don't know what they are drinking over there in Tallahassee....but I wish they would ship some of it up to DC.
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