Fill Up That Cart! Amazon Will Start Taxing MA Purchases Friday

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Last year a debate spawned as to whether Amazon must collect sales tax from Massachusetts buyers, with state officials and small businesses arguing that the lacking tax fosters unfair competition along with lost revenue. Those voices got their way—mostly because the company opened offices here, thus requiring it to comply—and Amazon will begin charging the 6.25% sales tax like all other retail venues statewide this Friday, November 1. So, if you're looking to purchase any taxable items from the e-commerce behemoth, might want to do it ASAP. Keep in mind though that the tax only applies to items bought from Amazon directly, not third-party vendors on the website. The Boston Globe reports that "the state Department of Revenue expects the tax to raise $36.7 million before the fiscal year ends June 30." Wowie.
· Amazon to begin collecting Mass. sales tax Friday [Boston Globe]
· Gov. Patrick Demands Sales Tax on Amazon [Racked Boston]