News, Culture and NPR for Central & Northern Michigan

State answers common garage sale questions

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Flickr user Rubbermaid Products

State officials are sharing answers to questions they often get from residents about hosting or visiting garage sales in Michigan.

Should I pay taxes on what I’m selling or buying at a garage sale?

Do I need a permit to host one?

These are the most common questions received by the state.

State officials said yard sales are considered “isolated” sales so products being sold are not subject to sales tax. They said unless the sale is considered a business, income does not need to be reported and losses are not deductible.

The state said they do not require a permit to host a sale but many municipalities do. So, they say it's best to check with your local governments before hosting a sale.

 

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