Starting a Business - Twice

Guess what.  I went to go search for my new L number on the Department of Assessments and Taxation's website.  I found I had not one number, but TWO.  Apparently they actually did process that application I sent four months ago.  They just never told me they did.

Now I have to look into getting the superfluous number "terminated."  Communication is a life skill, people.

Starting a Business - Progress!

On Friday, after another semi-random search through a trail of links on various government websites, I discovered a portal specially designed to streamline this process.  I applied for my L number (state tax ID) and actually got a prompt reply!

I received an email this morning informing me that my application had been accepted and that my number had been approved.  However, they didn't tell me what my number actually was, and apparently I have to wait five business days for it to be searchable on the Department of Assessments and Taxation's website.  I can only hope they're also sending a paper copy by mail.  Maybe.

Next, we apply with the county.

Some Sanity Regarding Internet Sales Tax

Ok, I've been Googling the latest articles, and apparently a threshold has indeed been set for the proposed law.  Unless small online retailers (such as Ebay and Etsy stores, specifically) do more than $1,000,000 in sales in a state in which they do not have a physical presence, they will not be required by that state to collect and remit sales taxes.

W00T!  Not so hopeless after all.

Decoration Renovation - Tealight Centerpieces

I've always liked candles on the table.  When our table has actually been clear enough to use, we've had little glass candlesticks.  Here's the new idea.

• 1 large thrifted glass, $0.90
• 2 small thrifted glasses, $0.80
• jute twine, preexisting
• craft twine, preexisting
• 1 bag crushed shells, $5.00
• 3 tealights, preexisting
• craft glue, preexisting

Retail cost:  $6.70

Total cost to me:  $5.70