Hawaii Sale of a Business Package

From the Hawaii Tax Foundation: The Hawaii general excise tax is eligible for the state or local sales tax deduction for federal tax purposes on schedule A of form 1040. Remember that you can deduct only one - your state income taxes paid or your sale tax (in our case general excise tax) paid.

The Hawaii sales tax rate is currently 4%.

A business must register for a General Excise Tax license in the state of Hawaii receiving income from almost any business activity including wholesaling, retailing, farming, performing services, construction contracting, rental of personal or real property, business interest income, and even receiving royalties.

Unlike some other states, Hawaii doesn't have a required general business license for all businesses. However, some businesses may be required to obtain permits from state agencies. For example, a business may need a permit related to the environment or health and safety issued by the Department of Health.

Complete Form BB-1, State of Hawaii Basic Business Application, and select GE One-Time Event to register for a one-time event. Use Form G-45, Periodic General Excise/ Use Tax Return, to report and pay the tax due from your one-time event.

1. What is the general excise tax (GET)? The GET is a privilege tax imposed on business activity in the State of Hawaii. The tax is imposed on the gross income received by the person engaging in the business activity.

In addition to form G-45, Hawaii General Excise Taxpayers must complete form G-49 (Annual Return & Reconciliation of General Excise / Use Tax Return) once a year.Form G49 is designed to give you credit for all of the taxes you paid, so if your gross income number is smaller than as expected, you may even get a refund.