If you charge sales tax on sales, you also need to obtain a reseller's permit from your state tax commission. To apply for the permit you will need to have registered a business name with your state or county. Whether you need a business license will depend on your community. Some cities license all businesses and others license only certain types of businesses, such as day cares, taxis, and restaurants.

It is unlawful for any person or corporation to engage in any business in the town without first having filed with the Town Clerk a business registration form.

Most people that do independent sales like that don't take the time to file any type of paperwork. Personally, I would think that filing for a DBA or even a LLC (based somewhere where it's free) would make a ton of sense for tax purposes as you can expand past simply selling Avon and have other products as well.

aileen - You may need a direct sellers permit from your state and/or local government. You can use this list to locate your state's permitting office.

I assume you are a sole proprietor, so the process should be simple if your city or county does require a license. Potential items include (1) filing a fictitious business name, or DBA, (2) obtaining a seller's permit, and (3) getting a local business license from your city or county. I would think Avon would have this information available for you, but you could also check with your local Chamber of Commerce, or your city's web site. Business requirements are often listed online along with instructions.

You collect all of the money that your customer owe you. Avon bills you the discounted price of all items sold plus fees. You pay the bill with the money from your customers and you keep what's left over. Avon brand products are discounted based on your earnings level, and all licensed products have a 20% discount.