Upcoming Sales Taxes For Some Patrons (Patreon)

Hey all, a not-so-fun announcement. You may have seen this information being shared already, but in case you haven't, here's what's up.

So, some new laws have been passing in several countries and US states, which requires Patreon to start charging sales tax on pledges in those areas starting from July 1st. Patreon will inform the patrons from the areas affected about the tax details on June 1st. So before you panic, wait for the announcement. If you don't receive one, you likely don't need to pay these taxes. Regardless, you won't be charged any new taxes in June yet, so relax.

In a nutshell though, if you're from one of the areas affected, the tax is added on top of the pledge, and varies by country/state. EU countries where VAT is already being charged, there is no change. There are however some European countries where VAT hasn't been charged before, but now will be. And then there are some other countries affected as well.

Certain rewards that come with pledges may not be taxable in some areas however and creators have some control over specifying these. In many countries the whole pledge must be taxed though, so ultimately I can't do a whole lot to reduce taxes for those of you affected, but I will optimize the pledge tiers where I reasonably can.

For more information and a list of countries affected, see the following official Patreon article:
https://support.patreon.com/hc/en-us/articles/360043055071 

Now, the following thoughts may arise for you. Let me provide my opinion on those.

Do I need to pay these taxes too?
Depends on where you are from. See the article I linked to above for a list of countries affected, and the tax rates.

Could I avoid these taxes by moving my support to SubscribeStar or Gumroad?
Maybe. I don't know if they charge the taxes yet, and if not, they likely will soon, since these laws seem to be global.

Additional taxes, ugh, I can't afford those. Gotta drop my pledge...
Sad, but understandable. However, the taxes will come in effect on July 1st, so if the old pledge price is still fine, maybe stay for June at least? Also, if at all possible, please consider changing your pledge to a lower tier instead of fully dropping it. Thank you.

Could I send support in some other way, like donations or gifts?
Sorry, no. The laws in my country don't really allow that.

FINAL THOUGHTS AND QUICK ART NEWS

That's all on the matter. Sucks to be the bearer of potentially sucky news, but what can I do. Laws are laws and taxes are taxes. Here's hoping not too many of you will drop your support because of this. :( 

Finally, quick art news. I'm trying my best to get one more artwork finished before the month ends. Tight schedule, so I'd give it a 50-50 chance. Not that it matters too much. I'd finish it the next day then. ;P