In this article
Marketplaces make it easy to start selling, but the tax side is more complex than it looks. Behind every order there is a sales invoice, a commission deduction, a shipping fee and sometimes a return. This guide gathers the essentials every marketplace seller should know.
Tax registration is required
Marketplaces require sellers to hold a tax certificate. A sole trader is often enough at the start; as sales and profit grow, the entity type should be reviewed. A small-trader exemption may apply under certain conditions, but its limits are narrow.
Sales invoices and e-Archive
An invoice must be issued to the buyer for every sale. For sales to consumers, e-Archive invoices are used. Many marketplaces work with providers to issue invoices automatically; still, make sure invoices match your accounting records.
Commission, shipping and service fees
- The marketplace invoices you for commission, shipping and service fees.
- These invoices are recorded as expenses and their VAT is usually deductible.
- Compare payout statements with invoices every month; a missing invoice means a lost deduction.
E-commerce withholding
Intermediary service providers (marketplaces) withhold tax from payments to sellers. This withholding is not final; it is offset in your periodic and annual returns. Tracking withheld amounts from payout reports is key to not overpaying tax.
Returns and cancellations
Returned goods require a return invoice or document that must be recorded. Otherwise you end up paying tax on goods you did not actually sell.
Know your real profit
Turnover can look high, but after commissions, shipping, advertising, returns and tax, net profit is very different. Monthly profitability tracking by channel and product should underpin your pricing decisions.
Ankara Muhasebem reconciles payouts, commissions and withholding for marketplace sellers every month and reports net profitability by channel. Legislation changes often, so confirm current rates with your advisor.
