Improperly charged sales tax.

Question

I just purchased some precious metal coins (currency) and was charged sales tax in the transaction. I have never been charged sales tax before when making such purchases. Most states don't charge sales taxes on such coins. Neither my state or the seller's state charge sales tax on such charges. I have even purchased exactly the same item on eBay in the recent past and was not charged sales tax.

I am tired of going through the circular Q&A on eBay without finding specific answers to this. Anyone with an answer for me on how I may get this fixed?

lisa5768 · Answer

@nagpicker2

eBya charges sales tax based on the delivery address, not the sellers address. Sales tax is charged based on the category the item is listed in not the actual item. If the coins were in the wrong category, like collectibles, then the system will add the tax. If the coins are not taxed in your state you will need to contact your state's taxing authority to find out how to get a refund.

If you are in Washington state: They now charge sales tax on precious metals sales effective Jan 1st 2026..