(1) Introduction. This section explains the retail sales tax exemption provided by RCW 82.08.0268 for sales to nonresidents of farming machinery and implements, parts for farming machinery and implements, and related labor and services. This section also explains the documents that must be preserved to substantiate a claim of exemption. Sellers should refer to WAC 458-20-193 (Inbound and outbound interstate sales of tangible personal property) if they deliver farm machinery or implements to the purchaser at an out-of-state location.

(2) Tax-reporting requirements. Retailing B&O and retail sales taxes generally apply to all sales of tangible personal property, parts, and repair labor in Washington.

(a) RCW 82.08.0268 provides an exemption from retail sales tax for sales to nonresidents of the following when used in conducting a farm activity outside the state of Washington:

(i) Machinery and implements;

(ii) Parts for machinery and implements; and

(iii) Labor and services for repair of machinery, implements, and parts.

(b) To qualify for the exemption, the machinery, implements, or parts must be transported outside the state immediately after sale or completion of the repair or service.

(c) This exemption is allowed even though the property sold or serviced is delivered to the purchaser in this state, but only when the seller receives from the buyer an exemption certificate, and examines acceptable proof such as a driver's license that the buyer is a resident of a state or country other than the state of Washington.

(d) The exempt nature of the transaction must be documented by using the department's "Farmers' Retail Sales Tax Exemption Certificate," or another certificate with substantially the same information as it relates to the exemption provided by RCW 82.08.0268. The certificate must be completed in its entirety, and retained by the seller.

The "Farmers' Retail Sales Tax Exemption Certificate" can be obtained via the internet at http://dor.wa.gov. The form may also be obtained by contacting the department's telephone information center at 1- 800-647-7706, or by writing the department at:

Taxpayer Information and Education

Department of Revenue

P.O. Box 47478

Olympia, WA 98504-7478

If, prior to completion of the sale, the seller becomes aware of any information inconsistent with the purchaser's claim of residency, such as a Washington address on a credit application, the seller should not accept an exemption certificate.