When purchasing bottled coffee drinks, many consumers, like Juliana Miura, typically pay little attention to their receipts. However, recent findings have revealed that discrepancies in sales tax charging could lead to overpayments at various stores.
“Every time I fill my gas, I buy one,” she shared with a chuckle while outside a Renton ampm convenience store.
A KIRO 7 investigation has uncovered that depending on the location, popular bottled coffee drinks, including Starbucks Frappuccinos, may incur sales tax incorrectly.
This issue is occurring across Washington’s convenience stores, from the North Sound region to the South Sound. While some locations accurately charge no tax on bottled or canned coffee beverages, others mistakenly add approximately 50 cents in tax for the same items.
The Washington State Department of Revenue has confirmed to KIRO 7 that these tax assessments are incorrect.
On Tuesday at 5:30pm, KIRO 7’s Deedee Sun will detail the tax error, explain what to check on your receipt, and guide you on how to reclaim any overpaid amounts.
Key Takeaways
- Consumers may be incorrectly charged sales tax on bottled coffee drinks in Washington.
- Discrepancies appear prominently in convenience stores across the state.
- Some stores charge no tax while others add around 50 cents.
- The Washington State Department of Revenue has confirmed the tax errors.
- KIRO 7 will provide information on how to address and reclaim overcharges.
FAQ
Why are some convenience stores charging tax on bottled coffee drinks?
The tax discrepancies may stem from misunderstanding state tax regulations on specific items.
What should I do if I overpaid tax on my coffee drinks?
Check your receipt, and if you identify an incorrect tax charge, follow the guidelines provided by KIRO 7 to request a refund.
Will this tax issue affect all bottled coffee drinks?
Not all bottled coffee drinks are affected; however, popular brands like Starbucks Frappuccino are commonly implicated.
How can I avoid these tax discrepancies in the future?
Pay attention to your receipts and familiarize yourself with tax exemptions on specific beverages to ensure you’re not overcharged.
Is the problem widespread?
The issue has been reported across multiple convenience stores in Washington, indicating a broader concern.
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