tax calculation for multiple items

[stupor_programmer]

The total Sales Tax Rate for my location is 9.1 percent.

Several recent purchases of multiple items - or more than one of the same item - have had unusual results for Sales Tax amounts calculated by eBay.

For example: a single transaction of two different items from the same Seller, each item priced at $5.00 giving a subtotal of $10.00, received an amount of $0.92 tax. How is 10 times 0.091 equal to 0.92 on any calculator?

I called the eBay help support and the representative advised me to speak with my Tax Advisor. Evidently, they did not comprehend my issue stated in U.S. English language.

Apparently, I must now limit my purchases to a single item for each transaction to avoid being overcharged.

[dede394]

The 9.1% tax on $5 is $0.46 -- there are no fractional pennies.

And two of the same is $0.92 tax.

If you can get it listed as $4.99 then tax is $0.45

and twice is $0.90 -- one penny wrong in the other direction.

[mudshark61369]

@stupor_programmer,

   "Several recent purchases of multiple items - or more than one of the same item - have had unusual results for Sales Tax amounts calculated by eBay".

The explanation by @dede394 , is correct.  Be glad your state doesn't also tax the shipping cost, or allow counties / municipalities to add a small percentage to the base sales tax rate.  If they do allow an additional percentage to be added, make sure to revise your address to a 9 digit zip code if your area doesn't do that.

[stupor_programmer]

All of my address data has the complete USPS ZIP+4 (nine-digit) Postal zip codes. 

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As I understand your response, it appears that eBay is "rounding up" any fraction of a cent - including fractions less than 0.5 cent - when calculating Sales Tax amounts. I expect that regular retail operations would experience immediate backlash from their customers were this to be done at their checkouts. Also, think about how Federal and State tax agencies specify Rules for Rounding - just examine an IRS 1040 or any state income tax form.

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As for taxing of shipping service fees, does the USPS Post Office charge Sales Tax on Postage Stamps?

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Correct, I am frustrated at all levels of "The Government" having their hands in my underwear.