What You'll Learn:

What state sales tax amnesty programs are — and how they can protect your business from severe penalties

How Voluntary Disclosure Agreements (VDAs) work and why they’re often your best path to compliance

The step-by-step process for applying for a VDA — including how to remain anonymous in the early stages

What benefits come with amnesty programs: waived penalties, limited lookback periods, and protection from prosecution

What commitments you make once you sign a VDA — and what happens if you don’t follow through

What to do if you’re not eligible for a VDA and still need to fix past noncompliance

Episode Highlights:

[00:02:10] Understanding Sales Tax Amnesty Programs
Tiffany explains how amnesty programs give business owners a chance to come forward and correct past sales tax issues without facing the full legal and financial consequences.

[00:07:00] Inside the VDA Process
Learn the full process for entering a Voluntary Disclosure Agreement — from submitting an anonymous inquiry to signing your official compliance plan with the state. Tiffany breaks down what each stage looks like and how long it typically takes.

[00:13:45] The Benefits of a VDA
Discover how states reward honesty through reduced penalties, shorter audit lookback periods, and protection from criminal prosecution — helping you start fresh and compliant.

[00:18:30] Long-Term Compliance Commitments
Entering a VDA is more than paying back taxes — it’s a promise to maintain ongoing compliance. Tiffany shares what the state expects and the serious consequences of breaking that agreement.

[00:23:10] If You Don’t Qualify for a VDA
Not all businesses are eligible — especially if the state has already contacted you. Tiffany walks through alternative strategies for negotiating payment plans, requesting partial penalty abatements, and rebuilding compliance.

Resources Mentioned:

FREE State-by-State Sales Tax Guide for Photographers — Learn exactly what’s taxable in each state and where you may have obligations.

Voluntary Disclosure Agreement Checklist — A quick-reference guide to prepare for applying for amnesty (available at bastianaccounting.com).

Financially Focused Photographer Facebook Community — Connect with other photographers and get expert advice.

This Week’s Homework:

Perform a sales tax compliance check-up:

• Review past sales data — Identify states where you’ve made sales or performed services

• Determine obligations — Use the State-by-State Sales Tax Guide to see what’s taxable

• Check eligibility — See if you qualify for a VDA or other amnesty options

• Plan next steps — Create a system to track, file, and pay sales tax accurately moving forward

Community Q&A:

“I’m behind on sales tax and found out I’m not eligible for a VDA. What do I do?”

Tiffany advises: Don’t panic. You can still take action to minimize penalties. Calculate what you owe, contact the state voluntarily, and establish a payment plan. The key is to show good faith and consistent future compliance — ignoring it will only make things worse.

Key Quotes:

“Ignorance is never a defense — but honesty and proactive compliance can save your business.”

“A VDA is like financial probation — the state gives you a second chance, but they’re watching to make sure you follow through.”

“Getting right with sales tax isn’t about punishment; it’s about protecting your business and your peace of mind.”

Connect with Tiffany:

Join our free Facebook community: Financially Focused Photographers
https://link.bastianaccounting.com/ffp-yt

Get inside the Financially Focused Collective (membership):
https://link.bastianaccounting.com/ffc-yt