My vendor did not charge me taxes on rental equipment for 3 months, am i still responsible ?

Question

So my company has a contract with a vendor for rental of some heavy machinery. They forgot to charge me taxes on them since February. Should I go back and back pay the taxes or when they come to audit the company will I be responsible and be penalize even though the mistake was not from my side ?

Answer 1

It would seem like you owe it, so have to pay it.

Answer 2

On your state sales and use tax return, there is most likely a line where you report the purchase (or rental) of goods where you didn't pay sales tax but should have.  So, yes, in a audit you would be held responsible.  Just put them on your next return, pay it, and be done with it.