Home › Tennessee › Reseller Permit

Reseller Permit in Tennessee: Cost, Steps & How to File

If you're planning to get a reseller permit in Tennessee, the process is more paperwork than it needs to be — but it's paperwork with a predictable pattern. This guide walks through the Tennessee steps in plain English, with real fee amounts and the specific state office to file with.

Typical cost

$0–$100

Timeline

Same-day–14 days

Renewal

Tied to your sales tax registration — renews when that does

Who needs it

wholesalers and retailers buying inventory tax-free for resale

Steps to get a reseller permit in Tennessee

Step 1: Register for sales tax first if you haven't already — the reseller permit derives from it
Step 2: Download the state's resale certificate form (each state has its own)
Step 3: Fill out the certificate with your sales tax permit number, business name, and description of what you'll resell
Step 4: Give a signed copy to each wholesaler / supplier you buy from
Step 5: Keep copies of resale certificates you accept from customers (if you sell wholesale yourself) for audit purposes
Step 6: Only use the certificate for items you'll actually resell — using it on personal purchases is tax fraud

Required documents

Sales tax permit number
State-specific resale certificate form

Where to file in Tennessee

Business filings: https://tnbear.tn.gov
Secretary of State: https://sos.tn.gov
Tax authority: https://www.tn.gov/revenue
Labor/workforce: https://www.tn.gov/workforce

Heads up: Once you've filed, keep a copy of your reseller permit in your business records. Tennessee agencies periodically request proof during audits, tax filings, or when you apply for related permits, and reproducing a lost filing costs more than the original.

Related permits in Tennessee

Sales Tax Registration in Tennessee Business License in Tennessee

Frequently asked questions

How much does a reseller permit cost in Tennessee?

Typical cost ranges from $0–$100. The exact fee depends on your specific business type, city, and any expedited processing you choose.

How long does it take to get a reseller permit in Tennessee?

Most Tennessee applications complete in Same-day–14 days. Same-day or next-day processing is often available for an added fee at the state level.

Do I need a reseller permit if I'm just starting a home business in Tennessee?

In most cases, yes — even home-based businesses in Tennessee are subject to the same state filing rules. Local rules (city and county) may add a home occupation permit on top.

This page reflects general Tennessee filing rules as of 2026. Fees and processing times change; verify the current amounts with the linked state agency before filing.