How to Get a US Resale Certificate (Seller’s Permit) as a Non-Resident (2026)

A resale certificate (also called a seller’s permit) lets your US business buy inventory from wholesalers without paying sales tax — essential for Amazon FBA and eCommerce sellers.

What is a resale certificate?

It tells suppliers you are buying goods to resell, not to consume, so sales tax is deferred until the final customer buys. This protects your margins on wholesale purchases.

What you need

• A registered US LLC.
• An EIN.
• Sometimes a state sales-tax registration in the state where you buy/store goods.

How to get one

1. Form your US LLC and get your EIN.
2. Register for a sales-tax permit in the relevant state.
3. Receive your resale/seller permit number.
4. Provide it to wholesalers to buy tax-free.

Important notes

Rules differ by state, and a resale certificate is not a license to avoid tax on retail sales — it only applies to inventory for resale.

FAQ

Do I need one for Amazon FBA?

It is highly recommended if you buy wholesale inventory in the US.

Is it the same as an EIN?

No — the EIN is your federal tax ID; the resale permit is a state document.

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