About sales tax (cause it wasn't complicated enough...) (Patreon)

Hello everyone,

note this is mostly the sample text by Patreon, although I added some snarky comments that hopefully provide some entertainment for you...

I wanted to give you an update on some changes that we’ll be seeing which may affect some of your pledges.  Due to new laws passing (aka mostly useless regulation drafted by people that have no idea to run a small business let alone anything else) in several countries and US states, Patreon  will be required to start charging sales tax on some pledges starting July 1st 2020. 

Less  than half of all patrons will be charged sales tax, and for most, the  amount will be very small. For example, sales tax rates in the US range  from 4% to 11%, so on a $5 pledge, that would be between 20 cents and 55  cents. 

Whether  or not you will be charged sales tax depends on your location, and what  is considered taxable there (cause else it would be way too simple and efficient). Not every pledge is taxable (at least one silver lining), not all benefits are taxable in every location, and sometimes only a fraction of a pledge will be taxable. The money that Patreon collects as a result of these laws are paid directly to local governments (that in theory should help local communities, but I assume they will just waste it...).

I’m  working closely with Patreon (I don't really think filling out a form qualifies as working closely though, but then again what the hell do I know) to ensure I’m able to save you as much  money as possible when it comes to sales tax - which is not something  that’s possible with other platforms.

If you’re in a location where sales tax will be required, you  should expect to receive an email from Patreon with more information  about this very soon, but I wanted to make sure you were aware of these  changes way ahead of July 1st when they go into effect. 

If you have questions, you should be able to find answers here. If you still have questions, the best place to get an answer is from Patreon’s customer support team, here. 

Thank you for all of your support!!!
Bernhard