The Iowa Resale Certificate form is designed for purchasers to claim exemption from sales and use tax on energy used in processing or agriculture. By completing this form, buyers can exempt future purchases from sales tax, provided they use the energy for qualifying activities such as grain drying or livestock raising.
Who should complete the Iowa Resale Certificate?
This form should be completed by the purchaser of energy who intends to use it for exempt purposes. Typically, this includes businesses involved in agriculture or processing industries that utilize energy in their operations.
How long is the Iowa Resale Certificate valid?
The certificate is valid for up to three years from the date it is completed. After this period, a new certificate must be submitted to continue claiming the exemption.
To properly fill out the Iowa Resale Certificate, the following information is typically required:
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Purchaser's name and address
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Seller's name and address
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Type of fuel purchased (e.g., electricity, gas)
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Reason for exemption (e.g., grain drying, manufacturing)
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Percentage of exemption claimed
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Details about energy usage, including meter numbers and utility account numbers
What documentation must accompany the Iowa Resale Certificate?
Documentation supporting the exemption must be provided alongside the certificate. This may include an energy study or other relevant information that details the processing or agricultural activities for which the exemption is being claimed.
What happens if the Iowa Department of Revenue does not review the certificate?
If the Department does not review the fuel exemption certificate within 12 months of the application for review, the certificate is automatically deemed correct. This means that the purchaser can continue to rely on the exemption without additional validation from the Department.
Can a seller refuse to accept the Iowa Resale Certificate?
Sellers can refuse to accept the Iowa Resale Certificate if it is not properly completed or if the necessary supporting documentation is not provided. Accepting a properly completed certificate relieves the seller of liability for sales tax on the exempt purchases.
What should a purchaser do if they need to obtain a refund for sales tax already paid?
To obtain a refund for sales tax previously paid on energy used for processing or agriculture, purchasers must fill out form IA 843. This form can be obtained by calling the Iowa Department of Revenue. An energy study must also be attached to the IA 843 to support the refund request.
What types of energy are included under the term "fuel" in this context?
The term "fuel" encompasses various forms of energy, including gas, electricity, water, heat, steam, and any other tangible personal property consumed in creating heat, power, or steam. It is essential to specify the type of fuel being purchased on the certificate to ensure proper processing of the exemption.