Im off to New York, leaving from london, Is there a way that I can get back the tax when I shop in the USA?

Question

sorry i think i ment VAT

Answer 1

I've never heard of such a thing in the US, though it might exist in some states.

You are paying a local government 'sales tax' on some of the items you are buying, not a Value Added Tax (VAT) like it is in most of Europe. Whereas VAT is refundable at most airports in Europe, sales tax is generally not refundable. The collection process would be incredibly complicated. For example, if you went to NY, and then flew out of Newark (EWR) there would be totally different tax systems between the two states.

I really think someone was leading you on.

Generally, the only people who are allowed to purchase items in the US without sales tax are diplomats, and even then it is a bit of a complicated process. Most of them carry a sales tax exemption card, but most retailers have never even heard of such a thing and charge them the tax anyway.

There is a deduction for US taxpayers on the amount of sales tax they pay, but that only comes into play when filing their US taxes, and again, is somewhat complicated.

WARNING: Some shady stores may be telling you that you can get a refund on your sales tax as part of a 'scam' to get you to buy it, hoping that you'll make the purchase but realize (when you are about to board your plane) that it is not the case.

Answer 2

The taxes paid during shopping in the USA is then spent by the local and state governments to provide things such as roads, police, fire, medical, sidewalks, street lights, street signs, etc.

I'm sure that while you are here visiting you will be taking advantage of at least some of the items I've listed above. Therefore the expectation to be refunded the taxes paid is a bit pretentious.

But to answer the question.. No you can't get the taxes back. However, when you go through customs, depending upon what you bought and how much you bought, you might have to pay an additional 'export' tax. You can find out more about the rules governing customs by going to the US Governments Custom website.

Good luck and welcome to America!

Answer 3

I think if you spend over a certain amount of money, that you can keep all your receipts and do something at the airport on your way home. Try asking at the airport when you leave for New York. Have a fantastic time and enjoy your shopping.

Answer 4

No! Everyone pays sales tax when they shop unless you are buying for re-sale. Even then you still have to have a State or Federal re-sale tax number. State sales taxes are collected at the point of purchase.

Answer 5

You should ask at the shops first. They will fill you a form. Then you will have to go to customs on your way back, and there fill more forms. Then you will get a refund several months later.
Not all shops have this service. Those that have, have a sign on them. So, you'd better ask before even starting.

Answer 6

Go to Macys, and go to their visitors department (ask an employee for directions!) they will give you a card which will entitle you to 10% off and tax free shopping, you need to show your passport to prove yoou are not a resident. Other than that, don't be so tight, its cheap out there!..... Good luck.

Answer 7

There is a office in Dublin airport near the arrivals where you give in your receipts from your holiday in the states and you get your tax back so there is probably one in English airports

Answer 8

You tight ar$e, you already get nearly $2 to £1 and its cheaper there anyway and you still want your tax back?

Jesus woman, be happy with what you have.

By the way you do know that if you get stopped at customs they can demand you pay import tax and can confiscate your goods if you don't pay.

Answer 9

Ask at the point of sale, show your passport. The US isn't that cheap anyway. Most of the stuff you can get cheaper in the UK. New York is quite expensive anyway.

Answer 10

You don't even pay sales tax on clothing items that cost less than $110.