Bellevue vs Federal Way
How do taxes & fees rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Federal Way has fewer restrictions than Bellevue.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue STR operators collect sales tax (~10.4%), a 5% hotel/motel tax, and a 2.5% transient rental tax under RCW 67.28. B and O tax may also apply. Airbnb may auto-collect some taxes only.
View full Bellevue rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way STR operators collect Washington retail sales tax, King County lodging tax, and state and local lodging taxes. Combined rates typically run around 12 to 13 percent, remitted through WA DOR.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Combined Sales Tax | ~10.4% | - |
| Hotel/Motel Tax | 5% | - |
| Transient Rental | 2.5% | - |
| DOR Registration | UBI required | - |
| State Law | RCW 67.28 | - |
| Combined Tax Rate | - | Approx 12 to 13 percent |
| State Sales Tax | - | 6.5 percent plus local |
| Lodging Tax | - | King County and state |
| Remittance | - | Washington DOR |
| Record Keeping | - | Five years |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
What is the total tax rate on Bellevue short-term rentals?
Approximately 18 percent when combining the 10.4 percent sales tax, 5 percent hotel/motel tax, and 2.5 percent transient rental tax authorized under RCW 67.28.
Does Airbnb handle all Bellevue STR taxes?
Airbnb auto-collects some state and local taxes, but operators should verify on the host dashboard which taxes are remitted and file directly with Washington DOR for any gaps.
Federal Way FAQ
What taxes apply to my Federal Way Airbnb?
Washington retail sales tax, state lodging tax, and King County lodging taxes apply to rentals under 30 days, typically totaling around 12 to 13 percent.
Does Airbnb collect all the taxes?
Airbnb collects many Washington state-level taxes automatically, but operators should verify and remit any remaining local taxes through the Department of Revenue.
Compare other topics
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