When buying an RV it is important to plan your purchase carefully. If you live in Pennsylvania, your vehicle purchase is subject to sales tax, so you need to factor the sales tax into your budget as you shop.
Shop for the RV you want. As you shop, be sure to factor the sales tax into the equation. As of 2010, the vehicle sales tax in Pennsylvania was 6 percent; so multiply the purchase price by 6 percent to get the amount of sales tax you will owe. Buying a used RV from a private seller is often the most cost-effective way to go, but be aware that state sales tax rules still apply.
Make your best deal with the private owner of the RV. Find a notary public in your area and travel to that notary with the seller of the vehicle. Be prepared to pay a separate fee for the notary work.
The sales tax due will be calculated based on the purchase price of the RV, but keep in mind that if that purchase price is significantly below fair market value the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania may make an inquiry and seek additional sales taxes. In Pennsylvania, the sales tax is based on the fair market value of the vehicle being sold. If your purchase price is close to the value shown in a reputable RV guide there should be no problem.
Write a check payable to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue and give it to the notary, along with all of your other paperwork. The notary will submit all of the sale documents for the RV, including the bill of sale, the vehicle report, the title and the sales tax payment, to the Commonwealth on your behalf.
