State tax guide · verified 2026-08-28

Does Washington charge sales tax on gold and silver?

Yes. Since January 1, 2026 Washington applies its full sales tax to bullion and coin purchases, having repealed a four-decade-old exemption.

• Rate: 6.5% state, plus local rates — combined rates commonly exceed 9%
• ESSB 5794 (2025) repealed the exemption that had stood since 1985, effective January 1, 2026, making Washington the most significant state to move in the taxing direction in decades.
• Washington repealed its bullion exemption effective January 1, 2026 (ESSB 5794) — purchases there are now fully taxed.
• Verify with: Washington State Department of Revenue

• Sales tax on gold & silver, state by state
• Sales tax on gold and silver in Canada