To apply for a sales tax permit in Washington, complete the state’s Business License Application. You can apply online or print out a paper application. The non-refundable application fee is $19.
Nexus and Sales Tax Rate
If your business operates in multiple states, you may need to obtain permits for each state where you have a sales tax nexus. A nexus means your business has a presence that requires collecting and remitting sales tax.
The state-wide sales tax rate in Washington is 6.5%. Local jurisdictions may add more sales tax. Use the buyer’s address to determine which rate to charge.
Additional Information and Permit Management
You need a sales tax permit if you make retail sales in Washington. Permit applicants need to provide ownership structure and business purpose information.
Manage your permit through the Washington Department of Revenue. Permits expire and require periodic renewal.
Washington applies sales tax to shipping costs.