This disclosure relates to a program controlled apparatus, system and
method for identifying taxable financial transactions, collecting data
based on the transactions and calculating any sales and/or use taxes due
on the transactions. The apparatus comprises a first database having a
directory of parameters identifying all domestic government authorities
by zip code, geocode, and by jurisdiction name requiring payment of
taxes. A second database is provided having a directory of parameters
identifying the taxability of goods and/or services for each jurisdiction
identified by zip code, geocode, and jurisdiction name in the first
database. Also, a third database has a directory of parameters
identifying all domestic sales, use and rental tax rates for each zip
code, geocode and jurisdiction name. Finally, a server is utilized with
programming for determining all taxes due on each transaction request
input to the apparatus according to the directory parameters maintained
by the first, second and third databases.