Online Retailer’s Use of Distributors Creates Sales Tax Nexus in AZ

April 5, 2024

Share this Article:

Written By: Baden Tax

A man is standing in a warehouse looking at a tablet.

The Arizona Court of Appeals recently found that a nationwide auto parts online retailer had established substantial nexus in Arizona through its distributors. The online auto parts retailer is based in Wisconsin and has distributors located in Arizona. The Arizona distributors supply, ship, and facilitate returns for the online retailer’s customers in Arizona. The Arizona Department of Revenue argued that the online retailer’s use of distributors creates substantial nexus in Arizona. The Arizona Court of Appeals agreed noting that the distributors acted on behalf of the online retailer, much like an independent contractor. The online retailer is compelled to register and collect Arizona sales tax due to its use of distributors in the state of Arizona.



If you have any questions, please contact Gary Schleinkofer at 260-969-2576.

Connect with us:

Arizona businesses affected by new exemption
March 4, 2026
Starting in 2026, Arizona’s Business Personal Property exemption rises to $500K. See what this means for your filing requirements.
Person using a tablet in a warehouse, another person in the background reaching for boxes on shelves.
February 26, 2026
Learn how Texas personal property inventory is reported at fair market value, what inventory must be included, and how to reduce audit and overvaluation risk.
Show More