Individuals conducting official UW–Madison business may be exempt from payment of tax depending on their location and the circumstances of the purchase. Any personal use of the university’s tax-exempt status is prohibited.
Note: Sponsored projects (e.g., fund 144 or 133) are subject to the terms and conditions of the specific award, as well as applicable program guidelines, which may restrict use of funds for certain types of expenses. Please contact the RSP accountant for your award with any questions.
The Wisconsin sales and use tax law in s.77.54(9a) provides an exemption from payment of state, county and local tax. The Department of Revenue has issued a tax-exempt number for use by all UW System institutions. Individuals may be asked to provide proof of tax exemption when conducting university business.
Lodging within the state of Wisconsin is tax-exempt when any of the following criteria are met:
Note: Vendors are not required to refund tax if the tax exemption information was not provided at the time of reservation or check-in. Travelers and those who arrange travel for others should make every effort to receive tax exemption, but, if unable to do so, taxes will be paid/reimbursed by the university.
Several states allow the UW System an exemption on their sales and use tax. For a list of participating states please visit the UW TravelWIse Portal and navigate to Policies & Procedures. Tax-exempt information is listed under Procedures & Operational Standards. Be sure to carefully read the restrictions/procedures provided for each state in order to determine what specific commodities are eligible for tax exemption in each location.
Travelers and departmental staff should contact their respective divisional business offices for policy or procedural questions.
Divisional business offices may email uwtravel@bussvc.wisc.edu with questions.