Are we required to store data in the EU that is collected in the EU?

"I have one key question, and cannot find the answer at your website. We are a small business in the U.S. Are we required to store data in the EU that is collected in the EU? We use Hostgator for our server. "

While keeping EU data in the EU can be considered a more compliant solution, you need to know that data transfer from the EU in the US is not forbidden. You need to transfer data by signing an agreement with Standard Contractual Clauses, in order to provide safeguards on data transfers.Of course, you need to also inform your customer in your privacy notice about where you will transfer their data. 

Your hosting provider claims to be GDPR compliant and here you can find information about how they can help you: https://www.hostgator.com/help/article/general-data-protection-regulation

Here you can find our free template with Standard Contractual clauses: https://info.advisera.com/eugdpracademy/free-download/standard-contractual-clauses-annexes

Here you can find more information:

• 3 steps for data transfers according to GDPR: https://advisera.com/articles/3-steps-for-data-transfers-according-to-gdpr/
• EU GDPR controller vs. processor – What are the differences? https://advisera.com/eugdpracademy/knowledgebase/eu-gdpr-controller-vs-processor-what-are-the-differences/

You can also consider enrolling in our free EU GDPR Foundation course:EU GDPR Foundations Course: https://advisera.com/training/eu-gdpr-foundations-course//