> Sales tax.  Similar to a VAT.  A portion goes to the city in which 
> it
> was sold, a portion to the county in which the city is situated and 
> a
> portion to the state.  However no federal sales tax in the United
> States.  Proportions vary.  May also include special assessments 
> above
> and beyond the base tax rate(s).

> Funds used to pay for "services" provided by city, county and state.


Sales taxes and their equivalents in many countries are waivable or 
refundable for non-nationals as it's recognise that said services have 
not been provided to them.

Either you can fill in a refund form which is presented to the customs 
department at nominated locations or the goods may be delivered to the 
point of departure from the country. The latter is less convenient but 
in some countries (such as my own)(afaik) is the only way it is 
achieved. In the EU one may submit the form at any border crossing or 
by mail to certain authorised agencies.  I bought a HP laptop in 
Vienna, Austria and had the sales tax refunded by mail after I 
returned home.

        Russell McMahon


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