Sales Tax when Harvard is the purchaser

501(c)(3) Non-Profit Status
Harvard University is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the US IRS. This means that Harvard University is a non-profit organization for income tax purposes. Although the 501(c)(3) document signifies that Harvard is a tax exempt organization, the document itself is typically not used with vendors for sales tax purposes.

Sales Tax Exemption
Each US state has its own sales tax laws and regulations. Harvard University is exempt from sales tax in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and several other states.

See Harvard's Procurement website for information about sales tax, including exemption certificates.

Please note: Harvard University as an institution does not advise on any personal income tax requirements or issues. Use of any information from this site or any other web site referred to is for general information only and does not represent personal tax advice either express or implied. You are encouraged to seek professional tax advice for personal income tax questions and assistance.