Sales tax now applies to some services

Starting October 1: Some business services are now subject to retail sales tax, as required by state law, ESSB 5814. When you buy these services, vendors should add sales tax to your bill. If you sell these services, you should begin collecting retail sales tax. Learn more about Services newly subject to retail sales tax.

Golf

The following are subject to business and occupation (B&O) tax under the Retailing classification, and the seller must collect retail sales tax:

  • Amounts charged to play golf, or any variant in which either a golf club or golf ball is used, such as miniature golf.
  • Golf driving range.
  • Golf simulators.
  • Golf cart rentals.
  • Golf cart fees.
  • Amounts paid by participants of competitive golf events to the golf facility operator.
  • Amounts paid by the organizer of competitive golf events to the golf facility operator, if such amounts vary based on the number of event participants.

Non-retail sales

The following are subject to B&O tax under the Service and Other Activities classification:

  • Charges for golf lessons that are stated separately from the green fees/golf facility charges.
  • Fees charged to participate in or conduct competitive golf events or tournaments.

More information

RCW 82.04.050 Sale at retail, retail sale.

WAC 458-20-183 Recreational services and activities.