Taxes
The City of Alabaster is referred to as a self-administered jurisdiction because businesses report and remit the various local taxes they have collected directly to us. Businesses register with the city and are assigned an account number and reporting forms for this purpose. Most businesses report and remit the taxes they have collected on a monthly basis, but the frequency of reporting can be different (quarterly, semi-annually, annually) based on the type of business and the average amount remitted.
For the sake of uniformity, all municipalities in Alabama are required to follow the same rules, regulations, definitions, and procedures as are adopted by the Alabama Department of Revenue for the purposes of collection and administration of sales, use, rental/leasing, or lodgings taxes. This does not apply to the different tax rates as these are established by each municipality.
Q: How Do I Register to Report Taxes to The City of Alabaster?
Click here to complete a Tax Application (PDF) and submit by email or Apply Online. If you are reporting taxes for prior to May 1, 2023 please call our office for the correct form. (205) 664-6844
Q: What If I Need A Business License and an Account for Regular Tax Reporting?
It is best to follow the application procedures outlined under Business License Info if your business needs both types of accounts. The Online Business License Application will help determine if a license is necessary and can expedite the process if a license is required.
Q: When Are the Tax Reports and Payments Due?
Generally, the reports are due by the 20th following the month for which you are reporting.
Q: What Are the Tax Rates for The City of Alabaster?
Revenue Source | City | County | State | Total | |
Sales/Use Tax | General | 5% | 1% | 4% | 10% |
Automotive | .5% | .375% | 2% | 2.875% | |
Lodging Tax | 6% | 7% | 4% | 17% | |
Cigarette Tax | Per pk 20 cigs or less | 5¢ | 4¢ | 67.5¢ | 76.5¢ |
Per pk 21-40 cigs | 10¢ | 4¢ | 84.375¢ | 98.375¢ | |
Per pk 41 or more cigs | 15¢ | 4¢ | 84.375¢ | 103.375 | |
Alcohol Tax | 5% | 5% | |||
Rental and Leasing Tax | General | 2% | 3% | 4% | 9% |
Automotive | .5% | 1.125% | 1.5& | 3.125% | |
Linen | 2% | 3% | 2% | 7% | |
Gasoline Tax | 2¢ | 26¢ | 28¢ |
Q: Can I File and Pay My Business Taxes Online?
Yes. In fact, if the State of Alabama requires online filing for your business then online filing on the Form 9501 and online payments are mandatory. If a paper return is needed to file an amended or past due return, the Tax Form is available for download. If you are reporting taxes for prior to May 1, 2023 please call our office for the correct form. (205) 664-6844
Q: How Do I Make an Online Payment?
All cities and counties in the State of Alabama use the same system, making it easier for you to manage your payments. Simply visit ONE SPOT to set up or access your account. Filing Instructions are provided by ONE SPOT. The City of Alabaster locality code is 9413, and the City/County Tax Account number is the City of Alabaster Taxpayer ID # on your business license. Please contact our office if you need to confirm the City of Alabaster Taxpayer ID #.