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Sales Tax

Sales Tax Update

Until recently, Seed Savers Exchange had only collected sales tax for orders within Iowa where we are located. A Supreme Court ruling (South Dakota v. Wayfair) changed the state sales tax obligations for all companies that sell remotely through websites and catalogs. As a result of the ruling Seed Savers Exchange will now be collecting and remitting sales tax in all required states and jurisdictions.

Is your agricultural operation qualified to make tax-exempt purchases?

If so, Seed Savers Exchange would like to obtain a copy of your current tax-exemption or resale certificate on file. This will help you to avoid sales tax on applicable items within your future SSE purchases.

For more information, please read through the list of frequently asked questions and answers below, and contact us [https://www.seedsavers.org/contact] should you require further assistance.

Why are you now collecting sales tax?

Until recently, Seed Savers Exchange collected sales tax only in Iowa, where we are located. However, a recent Supreme Court ruling (South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc., Overstock.com, Inc., and Newegg, Inc.) changed the state sales tax obligations for all companies that sell remotely through websites and catalogs. As a result of the new laws, we are now collecting and remitting sales tax in all states that require tax remittance.

Do you tax all products? How is tax collected?

Seed Savers Exchange charges sales tax on orders for taxable items in accordance with applicable state and local tax laws. The amount of sales tax charged depends on several factors, including the item purchased, the destination of the order, and the location from which your order is shipped. Please be advised that the estimated sales tax may differ from the final amount charged for your order.

Why is the sales tax “estimated” on my web order?

For online orders, the sales tax is estimated for all items. The remittance of sales tax is finalized through our internal order fulfillment process, at which time your order will be adjusted to reflect a final sales tax charge for your shipping location.

What is a sales tax exemption certificate?

A sales tax exemption certificate is a document that enables a purchaser to make tax-free purchases that would normally be subject to sales tax. The purchaser fills out the certificate and gives it to the seller. The seller keeps the certificate on file so the purchaser can make purchases without being charged sales tax.

What qualifies one for an exemption certificate?

Each state charging sales tax maintains an agency responsible for administering its sales tax system. The agency or tax authority issues exemptions to qualified businesses. For more information about exemption requirements please reference your State Department of Revenue service.

What is a resale certificate/seller’s permit?

A resale certificate is a form utilized by businesses that purchase goods that they intend to resell. This form is also referred to as an exemption certificate in some states. It is a written statement that the business will not be using the goods for personal use before reselling them. It is also used when purchasing goods for this purpose. Using this permit, you will not be subjected to sales tax. You will be asked for this certificate as proof when you purchase products from us.

Where can I obtain an exemption certificate?

For more information about exemption requirements, please reference your State Department of Revenue [https://taxadmin.org/fta-members/] service online website.

How do I send in my exemption certificate?

Many of our customers qualify for tax exemption. If your purchases qualify for exemption, we’re here to help you. If you have tax-exempt status and have a current certificate or reseller permit, provide us with a copy for our records. *IMPORTANT: A Federal EIN/TIN (Tax ID) or state business license number is required. Please be sure to include this when sending forms.*

Mail:
ATTN: Customer Service – Tax Exemption
3094 North Winn Road
Decorah IA 52101

Email: [email protected]