Revised 5/18/2016
How do I fill out the certificate?
The individual filling out the certificate is referred to as the Buyer. The first two lines, “Issued to Seller” and
“Address”, should be filled in with the name and address of the Seller. The rest of the information refers to
the Buyer (name and address of Buyer, business engaged in, description of business, property or services to
be purchased). The line next to each state abbreviation should be filled out with the relevant state ID number.
What information goes on the line next to each state abbreviation?
The line next to each state abbreviation should be filled in with the relevant state ID number. This will be an
identification number issued by the state (see next FAQ for an exception). For example, on the line next to
AL, provide the ID number issued by Alabama.) The relevant ID number may be given various names in the
various states. Some of the terms for this ID number are State Registration, Seller’s Permit, or ID Number.
Regardless of the name, this will be a number that has been issued by the state to the Buyer (see next FAQ
for an exception). This number is generally associated with the reseller’s authority to collect and remit sales
tax.
What if I don’t have an ID number for any (or some) state(s)?
The states vary in their rules regarding requirements for a reseller exemption. Some states require that the
reseller (Buyer) be registered to collect sales tax in the state where the reseller makes its purchase. Other
states will accept the certificate if an ID number is provided for some other state (e.g., the home state of the
Buyer). You should check with the relevant state to determine whether you meet the requirements of that
state.
Who should use this certificate?
A Buyer who is a reseller of tangible property or taxable services from a Seller located in one of the states
listed may be able to use this certificate for sales tax exemption. States vary in their policies for use of this
certificate. Questions regarding your specific eligibility to use this certificate should be addressed to the
revenue department of the relevant state.
Can I use this certificate?
The states vary in their rules for use of this certificate. You should check with the relevant state to determine
whether you can use this certificate. The relevant state may be the state where the Seller is located, where the
transaction takes place, or where the Buyer is located. The footnotes to the certificate provide some
guidance; however, the Multistate Tax Commission cannot guarantee that any state will accept this
certificate. States may change their policies without informing the Multistate Tax Commission.
Which states accept the certificate?
States listed on the certificate accepted this certificate as of July, 2000. States may change their policies for
acceptance of the certificate without notifying the Multistate Tax Commission. You may check with the
relevant state to determine the current status of the state’s acceptance policy. See next FAQ.
I am based in, buying from, or selling into Maine. Can I use this certificate?
Please contact Maine Revenue Services. See www.maine.gov/revenue/salesuse/GIB94.pdf
(External pdf)
I am a drop shipper. Can I use this certificate?
If you are the Buyer and your Seller ships directly to your customers, you may be able to use this certificate
because you are a reseller. However, your Seller may be unwilling to accept this certificate if you are not
registered to collect sales tax in the state(s) where your customers are located.
If you are the Seller, and you have nexus with the state(s) into which you are shipping to your Buyer’s
customers, you may be required by that state(s) to remit sales tax on those sales if your Buyer is not
registered to collect sales tax.