CHAPTER Rev 2900  GENERAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO ADMINISTRATION, RETURNS AND TAXPAYER RECORDS

 

PART Rev 2901  SCOPE AND APPLICABILITY

 

          Rev 2901.01  Applicability and Interpretation.  The rules in this chapter have general applicability to all taxes administered by the department of revenue administration.  These rules are to be construed in conjunction with any department rule relating to a specific tax administered by the department.  If a department rule relating to a specific tax conflicts with the rules in this chapter, the requirements in the rule that is specific to a tax shall govern.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

PART Rev 2902  DEFINITIONS

 

          Rev 2902.01  “Department “ means the New Hampshire department of revenue administration.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2902.02  “Federal identification number” or “taxpayer identification number” means:

 

          (a)  Social Security number;

 

          (b)  Federal employer identification number;

 

          (c)  Individual taxpayer identification number;

 

          (d)  Preparer tax identification number; or

 

          (e)  New Hampshire taxpayer identification number.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2902.03  "File" means to place a document in the actual possession of the department by one of the following:

 

          (a)  United States postal service;

 

          (b)  Physical delivery; or

 

          (c)  Electronic data submission if authorized by statute or another department rule.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2902.04  New Hampshire taxpayer identification number” or “department identification number” means a number assigned by the department to a taxpayer in lieu of a social security number or federal employer identification number for the purpose of identifying the taxpayer obtained pursuant to Rev 2903.01.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2902.05  “Preparer tax identification number” means the federal identification number of the tax preparer used to file tax returns on behalf of clients.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2902.06  "Return" means a department approved paper tax form or a department authorized electronic filing that provides sufficient information to calculate tax liability and meets the requirements of Rev 2904.07.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2902.07  “Substitute form” means a tax form or return that is not produced, issued, or published by the department, whether or not computer-generated.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2902.08  "Taxpayer" means any person, entity, or association subject to any provision of the tax and revenue rules and laws of New Hampshire that are within the jurisdiction of the department, such as an:

 

          (a)  Natural person;

 

          (b)  Estate;

 

          (c)  Partnership;

 

          (d)  Corporation;

 

          (e)  Limited liability company;

 

          (f)  Association;

 

          (g)  Business organization and, whenever appropriate:

 

(1)  Its officers;

 

(2)  Directors; or

 

(3)  Authorized representative;

 

          (h)  Trust; or

 

          (i)  Joint venture.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

PART Rev 2903  ADMINISTRATION

 

Rev 2903.01  New Hampshire  Taxpayer Identification Number.

 

(a)  The department shall require a taxpayer to obtain a New Hampshire taxpayer identification number or department identification number pursuant to Rev 2902.04 prior to filing any tax documents with the department if:

 

(1)  The taxpayer does not have a federal employer identification number;

 

(2)  The taxpayer shares a taxpayer identification number with another taxpayer who is subject to taxation; or

 

(3)  The taxpayer is not required to obtain:

 

a.  A federal employer identification number;

 

b.  Social Security number; or

 

c.  Individual taxpayer identification number issued by the Internal Revenue

Service.

 

(b)  In order to obtain a New Hampshire taxpayer identification number or a department identification number, the taxpayer shall complete and file Form DP-200, “Request for New Hampshire Taxpayer Identification Number (NHTIN) or a Department Identification Number (DIN)”, by providing:

 

(1)  Taxpayer entity name and address;

 

(2)  Single member limited liability company member name and address, if applicable;

 

(3)  The member’s Social Security number or federal employer identification number, if applicable;

 

(4)  Entity type;

 

(5)  If the entity’s income will not be reported by the entity or single member for federal income tax purposes, the member’s name, address and Social Security number or federal employer identification number who will be reporting it as income;

 

(6)  A statement declaring:

 

“Under penalties as provided by law, I declare that I have examined this application, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true correct and complete.”; and

 

(7)  Dated signatures of:

 

a.  Applicant; and

 

b.  Corporation officer with title, if other than owner.

 

(c)  Form DP-200 shall be filed at least 30 days prior to filing a tax form.

 

(d)  The department shall be notified of any changes made 30 days prior to the change.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05; ss by #8990, eff 9-25-07

 

          Rev 2903.02  Confidentiality of Department Records.

 

          (a)  All documents and information shall be confidential and shall only be disclosed in conformity with the provisions of RSA 21-J:14.

 

          (b)  The department shall only make a disclosure or allow a representative to act on behalf of the taxpayer if:

 

(1)  A properly executed power of attorney form is on file with the department;

 

(2) The taxpayer authorizes the specific disclosure or actions to be performed by the representative in a letter to the department; or

 

(3)  An authorized employee of the taxpayer is physically present when such disclosure or action is occurring.

 

          (c)  For purposes of administering the tax laws of the state, as assigned by statute and pursuant to the federal social security act, 42 USCS sec. 405 (c) (2) (C) (i), taxpayers shall provide their federal identification number or numbers on all tax returns and related documents.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2903.03  Power of Attorney.

 

          (a)  A power of attorney authorizing someone to act as an agent for another taxpayer shall include the following information:

 

(1)  Name, mailing address and taxpayer identification number of the taxpayer granting the power of attorney;

 

(2)  The name, mailing address and telephone number of the person to whom the power of attorney is granted;

 

(3)  The subject matter for which the power of attorney is granted;

 

(4)  Whether the person to whom the power of attorney is granted may:

 

a.  Perform all acts necessary related to the subject matter; or

 

b.  Only receive or inspect confidential tax information; and

 

(5)  The extent to which existing grants of powers of attorney are not revoked by the new grant of power of attorney.

 

          (b)  The taxpayer executing the power of attorney shall sign and date the document.

 

          (c)  The signature required in (b), above, shall be in the presence of 2 disinterested witnesses unless granted to:

 

(1)  An attorney; or

 

(2)  A certified public accountant;

 

(3)  A public accountant;

 

(4)  The preparer of the subject tax returns; or

 

(5)  Enrolled agents.

 

          (d)  A power of attorney may be provided using:

 

(1)  The department's form DP-2848 NH, Power of Attorney;

 

(2)  A letter addressed to the department of revenue administration; or

 

(3)  Federal form 2848, Power of Attorney.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2903.04  Check-the-Box” Limited Power of Attorney.

 

          (a)  The “Check-the-Box” limited power of attorney shall grant the department the authority to discuss the tax form with the tax preparer.

 

          (b)  A taxpayer may indicate such authorization through:

 

(1)  Checking the appropriate box; and

 

(2)  Providing the necessary information on the tax form.

 

          (c)  The limited power of attorney shall not:

 

(1)  Authorize the preparer to act as an agent for the taxpayer as provided for in Rev 2903.02; or

 

(2)  Constitute a revocation of any previous power of attorney granted by the taxpayer.

 

          (d)  The “Check-the-Box” limited power of attorney authorizing the department to discuss a tax form with the preparer of the tax form, if someone other than the taxpayer, shall include the following information:

 

(1)  Name, mailing address and tax identification number of the taxpayer granting the limited power of attorney; and

 

(2)  The name, mailing address and federal identification number of the tax preparer to whom the limited power of attorney is granted.

 

          (e)  The taxpayer and authorized agent, executing the power of attorney shall sign and date the document.

 

          (f)  The tax preparer shall sign and date the document.

 

          (g)  The taxpayer shall indicate such authorization by marking the box indicated by the instructions on the form.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2903.05  Partial Payments.

 

          (a)  Payments made in an amount less than the total amount due shall be applied to the taxpayer's liability in the following sequence:

 

(1)  First, against the penalties assessed under RSA 21-J or RSA 78-B:7, and protested check fees assessed under the provisions of RSA 6:11-a;

 

(2)  Second, against interest assessed under RSA 21-J; and

 

(3)  Third, against tax due as assessed in accordance with the specific tax statutes administered by the department.

 

          (b)  Interest shall continue to accrue on any tax liability remaining unpaid until the total outstanding tax liability has been paid.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2903.06  Minimum Payment; Return to be Filed.  If the amount due is less than $1.00, the taxpayer shall file the return but may omit the payment.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2903.07  Offset of Refund or Credit.  The following shall apply to all taxes administered by the department:

 

          (a)  Refunds or credits for taxes, penalties or interest paid by a taxpayer shall first be applied to, and offset against, any outstanding liability the taxpayer has with the department whether or not the taxpayer has contested or appealed such liability.

 

          (b)  Application and offset pursuant to (a) above shall be made as provided in Rev 2903.05 and the balance remaining, if any, shall be refunded.

 

          (c)  Refunds of tax shall accrue interest, pursuant to RSA 21-J: 28, until the date the department applies such refund according to paragraph (a), above, or refunds any remaining balance.

 

          (d)  No interest shall accrue on any refund of penalties or interest paid by the taxpayer.

 

          (e)  The department shall provide the taxpayer with a statement explaining the application of any refund or credit made according to this section.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

PART Rev 2904  GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR TAX FORMS

 

          Rev 2904.01  Applicability and Interpretation.

 

          (a)  The rules in this part shall have general applicability to all forms produced or required by the department of revenue administration.

 

          (b)  These rules shall be construed in conjunction with any rule that sets forth the requirements of a specific form.

 

          (c)  If a department rule sets forth the specific requirements for a form that conflicts with the rules in this chapter, the requirements in the rule that is specific to a form or tax shall govern.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2904.02  Department Address.  The department's physical location and mailing address, unless otherwise designated for specific purposes, shall be as follows:

 

          (a)  The physical location shall be:

 

New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration

Governor Hugh J. Gallen Office Park South

109 Pleasant Street

Medical and Surgical Building

Concord, New Hampshire 03301; and

 

          (b)  The mailing address shall be:

 

New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration

P.O. Box 457

Concord, New Hampshire 03302-0457.

 

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2904.03  Uniform Document Filing Information.

 

          (a)  A document shall be considered filed with the department when it is:

 

(1)  Placed in the United States mail addressed to the department with a postmark affixed by the United States Postal Service;

 

(2)  Received by a delivery service in accordance with Rev 2904.03 (d) below;

 

(3)  Delivered to the department; or

 

(4)  Received through electronic data submission that is authorized by statute or department rule as evidenced by the department’s issuance of a department confirmation number.

 

          (b)  A document transmitted by facsimile shall not be considered filed.

 

          (c)  Documents transmitted by means of the United States mail shall be deemed filed on the date mailed provided that at least one of the following conditions is met:

 

(1)  There is a legible date shown by the post office cancellation mark stamped on the envelope or wrapper containing the document;

 

(2)  The person filing the document can present a United States registered mail, certified mail, or certificate of mail record indicating the date the document was mailed;

 

(3)  If the document has been received by the department but the cancellation mark is illegible, erroneous, or omitted, the taxpayer presents other competent proof, such as credible, sworn witness testimony, that the document was properly addressed and timely mailed; or

 

(4)  If mailed but not received by the department, the taxpayer presents:

 

a.  Other competent proof, such as credible, sworn witness testimony, that the document was properly addressed and timely mailed; and

 

b.  Provides the department with a copy of the document within 30 days after the department provides written notification to the taxpayer that the document has not been received.

 

          (d)  Documents transmitted by a delivery system shall be deemed filed on the date:

 

(1)  They are received by a delivery service on or before the due date, provided the delivery service:

 

a.  Is available to the general public;

 

b.  Offers services equivalent to first class, registered and certified mail in a manner as timely and reliable as the United States Postal Service;

 

c.  Either:

 

1.  Affixes a date stamp to the package or envelope in which the documents or payments are placed indicating the date on which the items were received from the taxpayer and the date on which it is to be delivered to the department; or

 

2.  Records electronically within its computer data base, the date on which the documents or payments were received from the taxpayer and the date on which the items were delivered to the department; and

 

d.  Makes available to the taxpayer, upon request, a notarized statement indicating the date the documents or payments were received by the delivery service and the date the items were delivered to the department; or

 

(2)  They are received by the department on or before the due date in instances where:

 

a.  The postmark is affixed by a postage meter operated by the business or someone other than the United States Postal Service;

 

b.  The documents are delivered to the department by the taxpayer; or

 

c.  The taxpayer uses a delivery service or messenger, other than one in compliance with the provisions of (d)(1) above, to deliver the documents to the department.

 

          (e)  Documents delivered by a delivery service or messenger, other than one in compliance with the provisions of Rev 2904.03(d)(1) above, documents physically delivered to the department, and documents transmitted through the United States mail which do not meet the requirements of Rev 2904.03(c), above, shall be considered filed on the date received by the department as shown by the department’s date stamp thereon.

 

          (f)  Documents shall be timely filed when the date that they are deemed filed pursuant to this rule occurs on or before the due date for filing.

 

          (g)  Returns filed after the statutory prescribed filing date shall be subject to interest as prescribed in RSA 21-J:28 and penalties as prescribed in RSA 21-J:31 and 21-J:33.

 

          (h)  Taxpayers who fail to receive tax forms from the department shall not be relieved of their obligation to prepare and file a timely return, declaration, or extension request.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2904.04  Signatures.  All tax forms requiring a signature shall be:

 

          (a)  Signed in blue or black ink by:

 

(1)  The taxpayer, and if applicable, the taxpayer's spouse;

 

(2)  A corporate officer;

 

(3)  A receiver;

 

(4)  A trustee in bankruptcy;

 

(5)  An assignee in control of property of the business organization;

 

(6)  The executor or administrator;

 

(7)  A trustee;

 

(8)  Joint tenants;

 

(9)  A guardian or individual acting as the taxpayer's attorney-in-fact pursuant to a power of attorney; or

 

(10)  If the form was prepared by someone other than the taxpayer, the preparer of the form; and

 

          (b)  Dated.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2904.05  Alternative Methods of Signatures for Preparers.

 

          (a)  Preparers may sign original returns, amended returns, and requests for filing extensions by means of a:

 

(1)  Rubber stamp;

 

(2)  Mechanical device; or

 

(3)  Computer software program.

 

          (b)  The alternative methods in (a) above shall include either:

 

(1)  A facsimile of the signer’s signature; or

 

(2)  The signer’s printed name.

 

          (c)  Signers shall not affix a facsimile signature other than their own.

 

          (d)  Returns, amended returns, and request for extensions shall be filed in accordance with Rev. 2904.03.

 

          (e)  Signatures shall otherwise comply with Rev 2904.04.

 

          (f)  The use of an alternative method of signing shall have the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.

 

          (g)  The department shall reject any returns, amended returns, or requests for extensions utilizing an alternative method of signature that is in violation of this rule.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2904.06  Alternative Methods of Signatures for Authorized Agents.

 

          (a)  In order to be permitted to use an alternative method of signature, the authorized agent shall file a written request for approval of the use of an alternative method for signing 30 days prior to the date of filing the return, amended return or request for extension.

 

          (b)  Written requests for approval of the use of an alternative method for signing shall include the following:

 

(1)  Taxpayer name, address and taxpayer identification number;

 

(2)  Authorized agent’s name, address and taxpayer identification number; and

 

(3)  A copy of a power of attorney authorizing the agent to file the return or extension on behalf of the taxpayer.

 

          (c)  The department shall deny approval if the agent fails to provide the information in accordance with (a) and (b) above.

 

          (d)  Upon receipt of approval from the department, authorized agents may sign original returns, amended returns, and requests for filing extensions by means of a:

 

(1)  Rubber stamp;

 

(2)  Mechanical device; or

 

(3)  Computer software program.

 

          (e)  The alternative methods in (d) above shall include either:

 

(1)  A facsimile of the signer’s signature; or

 

(2)  The signer’s printed name.

 

          (f)  Signers shall not affix a facsimile signature other than their own.

 

          (g)  Returns, amended returns, and request for extensions shall be filed in accordance with Rev. 2904.03.

 

          (h)  Signatures shall otherwise comply with Rev. 2904.04.

 

          (i)  The use of an alternative method of signing shall have the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.

 

          (j)  The department shall reject any returns, amended returns, or requests for extensions utilizing an alternative method of signature that is in violation of this rule.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2904.07  Uniform Standards for Forms.

 

          (a)  Taxpayers and tax preparers shall use the tax forms prescribed and provided by the department, except as provided in Rev 2904.08.

 

          (b)  Unless pre-printed on the form by the department or submitted electronically, the taxpayer shall provide the following information on all tax forms submitted to the department:

 

(1)  The taxpayer’s name, address, and taxpayer identification number;

 

(2)  Spouse’s name, if applicable, and taxpayer identification number;

 

(3)  The tax preparer’s name and tax preparer identification number, if other than the taxpayer;

 

(4)  A mark indicating whether any of the following are applicable:

 

a.  An initial return, when the return is the first return that has ever been filed with New Hampshire;

 

b.  An amended return, when the return is the second or additional return that has been filed for any one tax period; or

 

c.  A final return when the taxpayer is no longer subject to taxation in New Hampshire and should be removed from the department’s mailing list; and

 

(5)  When the tax form is for other than a calendar year, the beginning and ending dates for the period for which the form is filed.

 

          (c)  All information appearing on the tax form shall be:

 

a.  In the same order in which it appears on the form provided by the department; and

 

b.  In the same layout as it appears on the form provided by the department.

 

          (d)  All white spaces marked “for office use only” shall be left blank.

 

          (e)  When negative amounts are shown on a form, they shall be enclosed by parenthesis.

 

          (f)  Checks, bank checks, or money orders shall be made payable to the “State of New Hampshire.”

 

          (g)  Tax returns shall include all information necessary to support the taxpayer’s calculation of:

 

(1)  Tax liability;

 

(2)  Payments made;

 

(3)  Credits applied;

 

(4)  Applicable penalties;

 

(5)  Balance due; and

 

(6)  Credit or refund.

 

          (h)  Pertinent documentation to support the taxpayer’s calculations shall be submitted with the applicable tax form, unless the taxpayer is requested to submit it separately, such as in response to an audit or department request for additional information.

 

          (i)  Pertinent documentation shall include, but not be limited to the following:

 

(1)  All numeric data required to calculate the taxpayer's tax liability;

 

(2)  U.S. federal income tax returns and schedules when the NH tax return utilizes federal taxable income as a component in calculating taxable income;

 

(3)  All NH schedules or facsimiles thereof that are required to support any element on a tax return;

 

(4)  Case citations for any court decision that supports the taxpayer's position when not specifically supported by NH statute, rule or court decision;

 

(5)  Supporting documents for any adjustments made that are not specifically included in NH statutes, rules or tax returns; and

 

(6)  Any additional documentation that the taxpayer wishes to provide regarding the tax calculation or positions taken on the return.

 

          (j)  If a return, the taxpayer shall sign a statement declaring:

 

“I have examined this return and to the best of my belief it is true, correct and complete.”

 

          (k)  If prepared by a person other than the taxpayer, the preparer shall sign a statement declaring:

 

“Based on all information of which I have knowledge, this return is true, correct and complete.”

 

          (l)  The department shall reject forms that are in violation of this rule.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2904.08  Substitute Forms Standards and Approvals.

 

          (a)  Substitute forms shall be accepted provided they are:

 

(1)  Clear and legible; and

 

(2)  Follow the exact format of the forms provided by the department.

 

          (b)  Substitute forms vendors who would like pre-approval of their substitute forms, other than 2D Barcode Forms, shall submit one complete hard-copy of their data-filled substitute forms and instructions to:

 

New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration

Forms Committee

Governor Hugh J. Gallen Office Park South

109 Pleasant Street

Medical and Surgical Building

Concord, NH 03301.

 

          (c)  Substitute forms vendors who issue 2D Barcode Forms shall submit their completed data-filled 2D Barcode Package for testing and approval to:

 

New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration

2D Barcode Approvals

Document Processing

PO Box 1201

Concord, NH 03302-1201.

 

          (d)  Substitute forms inquiries shall be addressed to the Forms Committee:

 

(1)  In writing at:

 

New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration

Forms Committee

P.O. Box 457

Concord, NH 03302-0457; or

 

(2)  By e-mail at formscmte@rev.state.nh.us.

 

          (e)  All substitute forms vendors shall provide the department annually, in December:

 

(1)  A list of all substitute tax forms that will be produced by their agency; and

 

(2)  The expected release date of each substitute form.

 

          (f)  The list shall be sent to the address or e-mail in Rev 2904.08 (d) above.

 

          (g)  Substitute forms shall be acceptable if they:

 

(1)  Are exactly the same page size as the forms provided by the department;

 

(2)  Contain all of the information, general and line-by-line instructions appearing on the forms provided by the department;

 

(3)  Include a cents line, wherever indicated on the New Hampshire form;

 

(4)  Not display the number zero on the form refund or credit carryover line when no refund or credit carryover is due the taxpayer.

 

(5)  Display the vendor’s name on the bottom of each form;

 

(6)  Include a “For DRA Use Only” box 1" high by 2" wide in the top right corner, wherever indicated;

 

(7)  Include a “For DRA Use Only” box 2" high by 1 ½" wide in the bottom left corner, wherever indicated;

 

(8)  Display the form number in the top left and bottom right corners of the form; and

 

(9)  Clearly spell out “New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration” and the form title on the top center of the form.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

PART Rev 2905  FORMS NOT INCLUDED IN OTHER RULES

 

          Rev 2905.01  "S corporation" means a small business corporation as defined by IRC subchapter S, Sec. 1361 (a)(1) for which an election under IRC subchapter S, Sec. 1362(a) is in effect for the particular tax year.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2905.02  Form DP-9, Small Business Corporations (“S” Corp) Information Report for Calendar Year _____.  “S” corporations shall complete and file annually by May 1, Form DP-9, small business corporations (“S” Corp) information report for calendar year ______, to report all dividends distributed to New Hampshire residents by providing:

 

          (a)  Name and address of S corporation;

 

          (b)  Federal employer identification number;

 

          (c)  The resident stock holders:

 

(1)  Names and addresses;

 

(2)  Social Security number; and

 

(3)  The amount of the distribution; and

 

          (d)  A certification by the treasurer or clerk of the corporation stating:

 

“Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this form and to the best of my belief it is true correct and complete. If prepared by a person other than the taxpayer, this declaration is based on all information of which the preparer has knowledge.”; and

 

          (e)  Officer’s:

 

(1)  Title; and

 

(2)  Dated signature; or

 

          (f)  Preparer’s:

 

(1)  Dated signature;

 

(2)  Tax preparer identification number; and

 

(3)  Address.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2905.03  Form DP 2210/2220, Exceptions and Penalty for the Underpayment of Estimated Tax.

 

          (a)  Form DP 2210/2220, exceptions and penalties for the underpayment of estimated tax shall be completed and filed by taxpayers who have underpaid estimated taxes due to determine the penalty, or the application of the exceptions by providing:

 

(1)  Taxpayer name;

 

(2)  Taxpayer identification number;

 

(3)  Tax period;

 

(4)  Calculation of any underpayment of tax;

 

(5)  Calculation of payments necessary to meet the requirements of the various exceptions to penalties; and

 

(6)  Calculation of any penalty due on underpaid quarters in which the exception was not met.

 

          (b)  Form DP 2210/2220 shall be attached to the tax return if there is an underpayment of estimated taxes.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

PART Rev 2906  RECORDKEEPING AND RETENTION REQUIREMENTS

 

          Rev 2906.01  Applicability and Interpretation.  The rules in this PART shall have specific applicability to all recordkeeping and retention requirements with respect to all taxes administered by the department of revenue administration.  The applicability of these rules is limited to the subjects of recordkeeping and retention requirements.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.02  Definitions.  For purposes of this PART, the following definitions shall apply:

 

          (a)  "Database management system" means a software system that controls, relates, retrieves, and provides accessibility to data stored in a database;

 

          (b)  "Electronic data interchange" means the computer to computer exchange of business transactions in a standardized structured electronic format;

 

          (c)  "Hardcopy" means any documents, records, reports or other data printed on paper;

 

          (d)  "Legibility" means the quality of a letter or numeral that enables the observer to identify it positively and quickly to the exclusion of all other letters or numerals;

 

          (e)  "Machine sensible record" means a collection of related information in an electronic format intended for use by a computer. The term does not include hardcopy records that are created or recorded on paper or stored in or by an imaging system such as microfilm, microfiche, or storage-only imaging systems;

 

          (f)  "Readability" means the quality of a group of letters or numerals being recognizable as words or complete numbers;

 

          (g)  "Storage-only imaging system" means a system of computer hardware and software that provides for the storage, retention and retrieval of documents originally created on paper.  The term does not include any system, or part of a system, that manipulates or processes any information or data contained on the document in any manner other than to reproduce the document in hardcopy or as an optical image; and

 

          (h)  "Taxpayer" means any person required to maintain records under the provisions of the taxes administered by the department where such person receives or creates records which are maintained or generated through various computer, electronic and imaging processes and systems.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.03  Recordkeeping Requirements.

 

          (a)  A taxpayer shall maintain all records necessary to make a determination of the correct tax liability with respect to all taxes administered by the department.

 

          (b)  If required records are retained in both machine-sensible and hardcopy formats, the taxpayer shall, upon request of the department, make the records available to the department in machine-sensible format.

 

          (c)  Nothing in this rule shall:

 

(1)  Be construed to prohibit a taxpayer from demonstrating tax compliance with traditional hardcopy documents or reproductions thereof, in whole or in part, whether or not such taxpayer also has retained or has the capability to retain records on electronic or other storage media in accordance with this rule; or

 

(2)  Relieve the taxpayer of the obligation to comply with (b), above.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.04  General Requirements For Machine Sensible Records.

 

          (a)  Machine-sensible records used to establish tax compliance shall contain sufficient transaction-level detail information so that the details underlying the machine-sensible records can be identified and made available to the department upon request.

 

          (b)  A taxpayer may discard duplicated records and redundant information provided its responsibilities under (a) above are met.

 

          (c)  At the time of an examination, the retained records shall be capable of being retrieved and converted to a standard electronic record format.

 

          (d)  Taxpayers shall not be required to construct machine-sensible records other than those created in the ordinary course of business.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.05  Recordkeeping Requirements For Electronic Data Interchange.

 

          (a)  Where a taxpayer uses electronic data interchange processes and technology, the level of record detail, in combination with other records related to the transactions shall:

 

(1)  Be equivalent to that contained in an acceptable paper record as described in Rev 2906.03; and

 

(2)  Contain the following information:

 

a.  Vendor name;

 

b.  Invoice date;

 

c.  Product description;

 

d.  Quantity purchased;

 

e.  Price;

 

f.  Amount of tax and indication of tax status;

 

g.  Shipping detail; and

 

h.  Information material to the transaction.

 

          (b)  Codes may be used to identify some or all of the data elements, provided that the taxpayer shall provide a method which allows the department to interpret the coded information.

 

          (c)  The taxpayer may capture the information necessary to satisfy the provisions of (a) and (b) above at any level within the accounting system.

 

          (d)  The taxpayer shall not be required to retain the original electronic data interchange transaction records provided the audit trail, authenticity, and integrity of the retained records can be established in accordance with Rev 2906.07, below.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.06  Requirements for Electronic Data Processing Systems.  The requirements for an electronic data processing accounting system shall be the same as that of a manual accounting system, in that an adequately designed accounting system incorporates methods and records that satisfy the requirements of this PART.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.07  Business Process Information.

 

          (a)  The taxpayer shall provide a description of the business process that created the retained records upon the request of the department.

 

          (b)  The business process description shall include the relationship between:

 

(1)  The records and the tax documents prepared by the taxpayer; and

 

(2)  The measures employed to ensure the integrity of the records.

 

          (c)  The taxpayer shall be capable of demonstrating:

 

(1)  The functions being performed as they relate to the flow of data through the system;

 

(2)  The internal controls used to ensure accurate and reliable processing; and

 

(3)  The internal controls used to prevent unauthorized addition, alteration, or deletion of retained records.

 

          (d)  The following specific documentation shall be required for retained machine sensible records:

 

(1)  Record formats or layouts;

 

(2)  Field definitions including the meaning of all codes used to represent information;

 

(3)  File descriptions such as, but not limited to, the data set name;

 

(4)  Detailed charts of accounts and account descriptions;

 

(5)  Flowcharts for the system and its programs;

 

(6)  Source listings of programs including those which provide formulas and account deviations from which the retained files were created; and

 

(7)  Evidence that the retained records reconcile to the accounting records and to the tax returns.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.08  Access To Machine-Sensible Records.

 

          (a)  When the taxpayer maintains machine-sensible records, the taxpayer's computer hardware or software shall accommodate the extraction and conversion of retained machine-sensible records.

 

          (b)  For taxpayers who maintain machine sensible records, the department shall consult with the taxpayer and access records by one or more of the following methods:

 

(1)  The taxpayer provides the department with the hardware, software and personnel resources to access the machine sensible records;

 

(2)  The taxpayer arranges for a third party to provide the hardware, software and personnel resources necessary to access the machine sensible records;

 

(3)  The taxpayer converts the machine sensible records to a standard record format specified by the department, including copies of files, on a magnetic medium that is agreeable to the taxpayer and department; or

 

(4)  The taxpayer and the department agree on other means of providing access to the machine sensible records.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.09  Taxpayer Responsibility and Discretionary Authority.

 

          (a)  A taxpayer with a data base management system shall comply with Rev 2906.04 through Rev 2906.07 if:

 

(1)  The taxpayer creates a file solely for the use of the department;

 

(2)  The taxpayer creates and retains a file that contains the transaction-level detail from the data base management system that meets the requirements of Rev 2906.04 through Rev 2906.07; and

 

(3)  The taxpayer documents the process that created the separate file to show the relationship between the file and the original record.

 

          (b)  A taxpayer who contracts with a third party to provide custodial or management services of the records shall not relieve the taxpayer of its responsibilities under this rule.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.10  Alternative Storage Media.

 

          (a)  Taxpayers may store and retain records by:

 

(1)  Converting hardcopy documents received or produced in the normal course of business and required to be retained under this rule to other storage-only imaging systems; and

 

(2)  Discard the original hard copy documents, provided the conditions of this section are met.

 

          (b)  Documents which may be stored on these media shall include, but not be limited to:

 

(1)  General books of account;

 

(2)  Journals;

 

(3)  Voucher registers;

 

(4)  General and subsidiary ledgers; and

 

(5)  Supporting records of details such as:

 

a.  Sales invoices;

 

b.  Purchase invoices;

 

c.  Exemption certificates; and

 

d.  Credit memoranda.

 

          (c)  Other storage-only imaging systems shall:

 

(1)  Document procedures for converting the hardcopy documents to microfilm, microfiche or other storage-only imaging system to be maintained and made available on request by the department;

 

(2)  Contain sufficient description to allow an original document to be followed through the conversion system as well as internal procedures established for inspection and quality assurance;

 

(3)  Establish procedures for:

 

a.  The effective identification, processing, storage, and preservation of the stored documents; and

 

b.  Making them available for the period they are required to be retained under Rev 2906.12;

 

(4)  Provide personnel and facilities and equipment for reading, locating, and reproducing any documents maintained on microfilm, microfiche or other storage-only imaging system upon request of the department;

 

(5)  Be legible so that a person with normal vision can discern the content of the documents when displayed on such equipment or reproduced on paper;

 

(6)  Maintain and arrange all data in a manner that permits the location of any particular record; and

 

(7)  Have no substantial evidence that the microfilm, microfiche or other storage-only imaging system lacks authenticity or integrity.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.11  Effect On Hardcopy Recordkeeping Requirements.

 

          (a)  Except as otherwise provided in this section, the provisions of this PART shall not relieve taxpayers of the responsibility to retain hardcopy records that are created or received in the ordinary course of business as required by existing statute and rule.

 

          (b)  Hardcopy records may be retained on a recordkeeping medium as provided in Rev 2906.10.

 

          (c)  The taxpayer shall not be required to create hardcopy records if such records are not produced or received in the ordinary course of transacting business such as when the taxpayer uses electronic data interchange technology.

 

          (d)  Hardcopy records generated at the time of a transaction using a credit or debit card shall be retained unless all the details necessary to determine correct tax liability relating to the transaction are subsequently received and retained by the taxpayer in accordance with this rule.

 

          (e)  Computer printouts that are created for validation, control, or other temporary purposes shall need not be retained.

 

          (f)  Nothing in this section shall prevent the department from requesting hardcopy printouts in lieu of retained machine-sensible records at the time of examination.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 

          Rev 2906.12  Time Period For Record Retention.  The records and information to be retained under this part shall be retained for:

 

          (a)  A period of 3 years from the due date of the return or date filed, whichever is later, unless notified by the department that the retention of the data is required for a longer period of time as a result of:

 

(1)  An extension of the statute of limitations on the assessment of taxes;

 

(2)  The commencement of an adjudicated proceeding involving the parties; or

 

(3)  The completion of any litigation in which the data may be relevant; and

 

          (b)  The specific period required under the statute or rule pertaining to a tax administered by the department.

 

Source.  #8389, eff 7-8-05

 


APPENDIX

 

RULE

STATUTE IMPLEMENTED

 

 

Rev 2901.01

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.01

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.02

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.03

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.04

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.05

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.06

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.07

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2902.08

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2903.01

RSA 21-J:13

Rev 2903.02

RSA 21-J:14

Rev 2903.03

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2903.04

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2903.05

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2903.06

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2904.01

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2904.02

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2904.03

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2904.04

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2904.05

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2904.06

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2905.01

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2905.02

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2905.03

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.01

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.02

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.03

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.04

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.05

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.06

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.07

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.08

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.09

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.10

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.11

RSA 21-J:13, I

Rev 2906.12

RSA 21-J:13, I