I make bracelets, "sell" them to people all over the country, and donate the proceeds to Home and Hospice of RI. Should I be collecting and paying a sales tax?? I've donated approx. $2000 dollars.

That depends on the sales tax laws of Rhode Island (assuming that you do in fact live in Rhode Island).

Up to about two years ago, most states did not bother to enforce their sales tax assessments on Intyernet sales, due principally to an Congressional resolution that exempted the Internet from sales taxes.

That resolution expired and was never renewed, and the states have become more aggressive in collecting the sales tax revenue on Internet purchases.

Generally speaking, if Rhode Island requires you collect sales taxes on Internet sales, they WILL require you collect them even if you donate the proceeds to charity.

I don't know how to comment!
Thanks Atlanta tax expert.

Can I ask, what should I do-call RI tax office? Do I have to register or something??
Thanks again

Call the Rhode Island tax department, and ask for sales tax. They will tell you all you need to know.

I guess posting an answer is commenting... wasn't sure if I was missing the "comment" box.

Anyway-good to know. I will do that I guess. Is sales tax different then use tax? Is use tax for internet purchases??

Some states HAVE been using the USE tax to tax Internet transactions, so it would not surprise me if RI did the same.

Thanks!

Glad to help!