Washington Sales Tax Permit Cost (2026)
A sales-tax permit in Washington costs $50 business-license fee. Sales-tax registration is bundled into the state Business License Application, which has a $50 processing fee ($90 to open a first location); the reseller permit itself is free. You need it before you can legally collect sales tax.
Verified July 2026 from official sources. How we verify fees.
What it costs in Washington
- Registration fee: $50 business-license fee
- Renewal: Business license renews (fee)
- Resale certificate: free / self-issued
- Also needed: an EIN (free from the IRS) and usually a registered business
How it works
You register through the Washington Department of Revenue, usually online, and receive your permit (often the same day). Sales-tax registration is bundled into the state Business License Application, which has a $50 processing fee ($90 to open a first location); the reseller permit itself is free. A sales-tax permit is separate from forming the business itself — see our Washington LLC and DBA cost pages for those fees.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a sales tax permit in Washington?
$50 business-license fee. Sales-tax registration is bundled into the state Business License Application, which has a $50 processing fee ($90 to open a first location); the reseller permit itself is free.
Do I need a sales tax permit in Washington?
Yes, if you sell taxable goods or services in Washington — you must register before collecting any sales tax from customers.
Does a Washington sales tax permit expire?
Renewal: business license renews (fee).