Anybody use Avalara (MyLodgeTax) in Miami? Worth it?

Question

Hi,

I'm in the closing process of a unit I purchased in Miami, I believe Airbnb/VRBO/etc. collect taxes on each booking but I'm kind of lost on what type of taxes I have to pay to Miami. I came across the Avalara (MyLodgeTax) website and it seem like they do a good job simplifying this.

https://www.avalara.com/mylodg...

Does anyone have any experience using Avalara (MyLodgeTax) on STR's in Miami?  Is it worth it?

Thank you!

Kerry Baird · Answer

I paid for the NOLO guide called Every Airbnb Host, or the guide to short term rentals, and they recommend the Avalara program.  It is $70 to sign up, and $20 a month.  I have no experience with them.  AirBnb takes the money out, but VRBO does not.  I know I have to my my county, but not the municipality.  What did you end up choosing to do?

Sharon Rosendahl · Answer

I have never used the MyLodgeTax program but I have used Avalara sales tax. They made life super easy. I went to some of their free trainings in Seattle (they are located downtown and I'm in the general area) and got lots of great info. Overall, support was really good but they seemed to have trouble keeping sales people at that time (several years ago).

As for what taxes you need to pay, I would check the state and city tax or revenue websites for guidance on lodging tax. You likely will find some info there. Calling can help. In our state, dept of revenue has a help line that is really great at answering questions. Also, talk to your CPA about it. They should be able to give you a quick answer as to what you need to do.

Dennis Gallof · Answer

Just following up, has anyone had experience using Avalara (MyLodgeTax) in general?

Thank you!