claiming tax back in US

scrunk

Can anyone help? Is it possible to claim tax back on purchases when visiting the US in the same way that visitors to the UK can claim the VAT back?
thanks

dzug

No it isn't, with one exception - the state of Louisiana where it's possible if you follow the right procedures and buy in the right shops.

You can also sometimes avoid it by having the merchant mail you the goods - but may well cop a UK tax bill when they are delivered.

And there's the odd state (??Delaware rings a bell) where there's no tax to begin with

Bob63

There is no sales tax on Internet purchases so simply buy what you need on Amazon and have it delivered to your hotel.

There is no sales tax in Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon.

Mike

sallysaver

Hi,
Agree with dzug and cheesy mike, but boy do they love telling you in the shops you can claim the tax back at the airport and really look astounded when you tell them its not possible! Sally

bomb_3

I have just returned from a trip to New York where I posed the exact same question. As others have told you, the general answer is no, however, larger department stores like Macys and Bloomingdales will pay you back the tax charged if you spend over a certain amount, e.g. $150-$200. You need to show your receipt at the visitor centre in store. Maybe this applies in other cities too. Hope it helps!

sallysaver

Hi, FAO Bomb.
Macys & Bloomingdales only pay the tax back on some items, Luxury goods such as make-up, perfume & cameras are not included. Sally