![[VIDEO] It was a 3-ring circus! This revamped school auction thought of everything](https://www.redappleauctions.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Circus-Rimgmaster-Auctioneer-Sherry-Truhlar_opt-150x150.jpg)
In April I worked a school fundraiser with a circus-theme. It was elegant, not campy. You'll see that via the video below. This is a well-run auction, but as with every event, there are concerns during the planning stage. Part of my time with each client is spent hammering out the details, especially as it relates to the fundraising components of the night. Videos like these don't show the pre-event concerns. Concerns about flow. Concerns about layout. Concerns about sound. Concerns ... Read On >
Tax
Do you have to collect sales tax on auction items?
Do you have to collect sales tax at your benefit auction? Should guests be paying sales tax on auction items? The answer depends upon your state and municipal rules. If your fundraiser is in Maryland, you must charge sales tax. If you're living in an area that requires tax collection, I suggest putting a written notice in your catalog or program. Most often this type of information is listed as one of the points in the "Rules of the Auction" section. Some groups will also have the notice ... Read On >
It’s tax day 2010. Here’s one benefit auction tax question answered.
The Sacramento Bee printed an April 11, 2010 tax-related "Ask the Expert" style article ("Set up IRS Payment Plan Online") which was picked up and re-broadcast by www.AZCentral.com, where I read it. Lo and behold, one of the questions was related to benefit auctions and the tax deductible nature of a timeshare. The question was answered by IRS specialist Jesse Weller. I've reprinted the question and answer in its entirety below, or you can read the complete column by clicking here.Q: My ... Read On >