Washington is offering a rare chance for international sellers who are not collecting sales tax to come into compliance without penalties and with a capped lookback period. If your business has established nexus but hasn’t registered, this is an opportunity to reduce risk and position your business for growth in one of the top 10 U.S. markets.

Why This Matters

Failing to register can expose your business to unlimited tax assessments and penalties as high as 39%. The Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP) eliminates those risks and provides a clear path forward.

Key Benefits of the VDP

  • Penalty Waivers: Avoid late filing penalties (typically 39%)
  • Limited Lookback: Exposure capped at 12 months for uncollected retail sales tax
  • Confidential Process: Apply anonymously if preferred
  • Future Growth: Build a compliant foundation for expansion in Washington State

Who Qualifies?

Qualifying businesses for Washington’s VDP include businesses headquartered outside the U.S. that:

  • Have not registered or reported taxes in Washington
  • Have not been contacted by the state
  • Have not engaged in evasion or misrepresentation

Act Now

This program is time-sensitive and offers a rare chance to resolve past obligations on favorable terms. Our team can guide you through eligibility, documentation and next steps.

Your Guide Forward

Cherry Bekaert’s Sales & Use Tax team can help you navigate the VDP and minimize risk. Whether you’re evaluating exposure or planning for future compliance, we’re ready to assist.

Connect With Us

Lauren Stinson

Sales & Use Tax Leader

Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Ross Browning headshot

Ross Browning

Sales & Use Tax Services

Manager, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Contributors

Connect With Us

Lauren Stinson

Sales & Use Tax Leader

Partner, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC

Ross Browning headshot

Ross Browning

Sales & Use Tax Services

Manager, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC