Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1115

Introduced
1/13/25  

Caption

Concerning the excise tax treatment of amounts received by title and escrow businesses from clients for remittance to a county filing office for the purpose of recording documents.

Impact

The introduction of HB1115 is set to impact state tax laws particularly concerning how excise taxes are administered in relation to services provided by title and escrow businesses. By defining the circumstances and method of tax assessment for funds collected from clients, the bill could lead to changes in accounting practices for these businesses. If the bill is passed, it may necessitate adjustments in financial reporting and compliance procedures for title agencies, thereby influencing operational practices in the industry.

Summary

House Bill 1115 addresses the excise tax treatment applicable to amounts received by title and escrow companies. Specifically, the bill outlines the handling of funds that these businesses receive from clients, intended for remittance to county filing offices for the purpose of recording documents. By clarifying how these transactions are taxed, the bill aims to ensure compliance with state regulations while potentially alleviating the tax burden on title and escrow businesses. This should provide more clarity and consistency, which is often essential in real estate transactions.

Conclusion

Overall, HB1115 represents an effort to streamline the excise tax framework affecting title and escrow operations in the state, addressing concerns that have arisen in the industry. The outcomes of this legislation could have far-reaching implications for both service providers and clients involved in document recording transactions, with potential impacts on cost structures and compliance obligations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1115 may revolve around the interpretation of tax applications amidst differing opinions on how excise taxes should be applied to the services offered by title and escrow firms. Some stakeholders argue that the new provisions could impose additional responsibilities on these businesses, while others might see it as a necessary step for clarity. The discussions may include challenges of ensuring equitable tax treatment across different counties and the implications for clients relying on these services.

Companion Bills

WA SB5111

Crossfiled Concerning the excise tax treatment of amounts received by title and escrow businesses from clients for remittance to a county filing office for the purpose of recording documents.

Previously Filed As

WA SB6034

Clarifying the excise tax treatment of document recording and filing fees received by title and escrow businesses from clients for remittance to county recording and filing offices.

WA HB2183

Prohibiting elected officials from including their name on remittances resulting from a lawsuit.

WA HB1042

Concerning the use of existing buildings for residential purposes.

WA HB1092

Concerning the valuation of property for purposes of state property tax levies.

WA SB6073

Concerning the use of artificial intelligence language learning models in official court filings.

WA HB1757

Providing a sales and use tax remittance to qualified farmers.

WA HB2181

Concerning the pipe tobacco excise tax rate.

WA SB5886

Adding purposes for the use of existing firefighter safety funding.

WA HB1986

Adding purposes for the use of existing firefighter safety funding.

WA HB1290

Concerning training for tribal police officers and employees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.