Why am I being charged sales tax?

Washington State Buyer’s Retail Sales Tax Exemption (WABRTE) Program Change

The (WABRTE) Program through June 30, 2019 allows for Non-Resident to be Exempt from Washington State Sales Tax by submitting identification that establishes proof of non-residency or furnishing a properly completed uniform exemption certificate.

Starting July 1, 2019 The (WABRTE) Program is called The Washington State Buyer’s Retail Sales Tax Remittance Program.

Nonresident Sales Tax Remittance Program

The nonresident sales tax exemption is converted to a remittance program. Refunds may only be requested by nonresidents for the immediately preceding calendar year, and must be for at least $25. In addition, a nonresident may only make one refund request per calendar year. The request must include proof of nonresident status as prescribed by the Department of Revenue.

The remittance program from Washington State Department of Revenue is provided for sales to nonresidents of this state of tangible personal property, digital goods, and digital codes.  The exemption only applies if the property is for use outside this state.

Any person claiming exemption from retail sales tax under the provisions of this section must pay the state and local sales tax to the seller at the time of purchase and then request a remittance from Washington State Department of Revenue.

How Do I Apply For My Tax Rebate?

A request for remittance must include proof of the person’s status as a nonresident at the time of the purchase for which a remittance is requested. The request for a remittance must also include any additional information and documentation as required by the department, which may include a description of the item purchased for which a remittance is requested, the sales price of the item, the amount of sales tax paid on the item, the date of the purchase, the name of the seller and the physical address where the sale took place, and copies of sales receipts showing the qualified purchases.

You can read the full House Bill Here