New Zealand GST on Amazon Seller Fees: What You Need to Know
Amazon charges New Zealand resident sellers a 15% GST on selling fees under remote services tax rules. Sellers can avoid this charge by submitting a valid NZ GST registration number through Seller Central, and can request refunds for previously charged GST.
Overview
Amazon collects New Zealand Goods and Services Tax (GST) at a rate of 15% on selling fees charged to sellers who are residents of New Zealand. This tax applies under New Zealand's remote services regulations, which require overseas service providers like Amazon to collect GST on certain services. Sellers who provide a valid NZ GST registration number can avoid having this tax applied to their fees.
Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know
- 15% GST on selling fees - Amazon charges New Zealand resident sellers a standard GST rate of 15% on their selling fees unless they have provided a valid GST registration number.
- Exemption available - Sellers who submit their NZ GST registration number to Amazon will not have the 15% GST applied to their selling fees.
- Non-residents are not affected - If you are not a resident of New Zealand, your selling fees will not be subject to NZ GST collection through your account.
- Effective since June 2016 - Amazon has been calculating and collecting NZ GST on applicable seller fees since June 1, 2016.
- Refunds are possible - Sellers who were previously charged GST before providing their registration number can request a refund, though processing takes up to 90 days.
How to Submit Your NZ GST Registration Number
To avoid being charged the 15% GST on your Amazon selling fees, you need to provide your NZ GST registration number directly through Seller Central. Log in to your account and navigate to your account settings. In the tax information section, click on "VAT information," then select "Add new VAT/GST registration number." From the country list, choose New Zealand and enter your GST registration number. You will need to accept and acknowledge the conditions in the registration agreement to complete the process. Once submitted, Amazon will stop applying the 15% GST to your selling fees going forward.
How to Obtain an NZ GST Number
Sellers who do not yet have a New Zealand GST registration number can register for one online through the New Zealand government's tax authority website. Search for "GST" on the official site to find the registration process and requirements. If you have questions about whether you are required to register for GST or how the regulations affect your specific situation, consult a qualified tax advisor. Amazon does not provide tax advisory or compliance services, so professional guidance is recommended for any tax-related questions.
Analysis & Recommendations
Why This Matters
New Zealand-based Amazon sellers face a 15% surcharge on all selling fees unless they take action to register and submit their GST number. Understanding this process helps sellers avoid unnecessary costs and recover any GST already charged.
Key Takeaways
- Amazon charges 15% NZ GST on selling fees for New Zealand resident sellers without a registered GST number
- Submitting your NZ GST registration number through Seller Central exempts you from the charge
- Non-NZ residents are not subject to this GST collection
- Refunds for previously charged GST can be requested but take up to 90 days to process
Recommended Actions
- →If you are an NZ-resident seller, register for a GST number and submit it in Seller Central under VAT information immediately to stop the 15% charge
- →Request a refund through Seller Central's Contact Us form for any GST charged before you provided your registration number
- →Review all address and payment information in your account settings to ensure accuracy and prevent unexpected GST charges
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