When discussing state and local tax systems, Washington State often appears as a paradox. It’s known for having no state income tax, an attribute that seems advantageous on the surface. However, according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP), Washington has the second most
Small Business Booming in Seattle (especially in U-District)
UPDATE NOV 2024: The information provided about Seattle's business landscape in 2023 remains relevant in 2024, albeit with some nuances. While the pandemic's immediate impact has lessened, its long-term effects, such as the rise of remote work and the shift towards digitalization, continue to shape
Seattle’s New Capital Gains Tax and the Implications for Real Estate
Seattle's housing and homelessness crisis continues to escalate, prompting bold action from city officials. In a recent announcement, City Council member Cathy Moore proposed a new city-level capital gains tax to bolster housing and food assistance programs. This move is aimed at addressing a
Seattle Transportation Levy: What the $1.55 Billion Levy Means for Property Owners and Small Businesses
Updated: Sep 2026 Seattle property owners are now paying for a major investment in the city's transportation infrastructure. In November 2024, Seattle voters approved an eight-year, $1.55 billion Transportation Levy to fund street maintenance, bridge repairs, sidewalks, pedestrian and bicycle
Seattle’s Sweet Success: Could a Soda Tax Fund Your Child’s Education?
Remember the uproar in 2017 when Seattle passed a tax on sugary drinks? Critics predicted economic doom and gloom for small businesses, while others questioned the effectiveness of such a measure. Fast forward to today, and the story is taking a surprising turn – one that could have a significant
Seattle Eying Delivery App Fees, Not A Food Levy
Confusion has gripped Seattle residents in recent weeks, fueled by rumors circulating online about a proposed tax on groceries. The culprit? An email allegedly from Instacart, the popular grocery delivery service, warning customers about the new levy. But fear not, Seattleites, your pantries are
Seattle’s Tax Burden Soars, But City Struggles to Address Urgent Concerns
The Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) is raising concerns about the city's escalating tax rates and its failure to address critical issues facing residents. A recent study commissioned by the DSA revealed that Seattle's general fund and operating fund taxes have skyrocketed at an alarming rate,
Navigating Black Friday as a Small Business
Black Friday is a global shopping phenomenon, synonymous with deep discounts and frenzied crowds. While large conglomerates and big-box retailers dominate the Black Friday landscape with their massive advertising budgets and deep-pocketed promotions, small businesses often find themselves struggling