Washington’s 8% luxury surcharge on vehicles and aircraft priced above $100,000 is catching business owners off guard in 2026. The tax applies only to the amount over the threshold, but total tax burdens on high-value purchases can exceed $80,000 on a $500,000 asset. Business titling alone doesn’t eliminate exposure – Washington focuses on actual use, not just ownership structure. Legitimate planning tools exist, including lease structures, trade-in credits, and commercial aviation exemptions, but they require pre-purchase analysis and proper documentation. The most common trap is assuming a business entity on the title settles the matter, only to face audit exposure later. For Bellevue-area business owners considering major asset acquisitions, getting the structure right before closing is far less costly than correcting it afterward.
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Testimonials
Bryn was very helpful in reviewing our company’s transportation contracts and recommended several changes that have come to be very beneficial.
Lonnie R.
Personable and professional at all times, under all circumstances. Demonstrates a “bias for action, clarity, and consistency” through utilization of excellent collaboration and listening skills.
Joe B.
I enjoy working with Bryn. He is great at picking up the legal details that I miss when we are putting contracts together. He is thorough and asks great questions. His legal knowledge is excellent and he is often able to provide a challenge that leads to a better result.
Ian D.
Bryn Peterson is a knowledgeable and balanced corporate attorney with a wide-range of experience from trademarking to lease and trade negotiations. I had the pleasure of working with Bryn on almost a daily basis when he worked for Tree Top. Because our offices were next door to each other I saw and heard him in action interacting with dozens of people daily on all kinds of issues. In my role as Corporate Communications Director I also worked directly with Bryn and sought his expertise on many occasions related to food safety regulations, consumer concerns, vendor agreements and personal services contracts. Bryn was thorough in his review, thoughtful in his guidance, and diligent about serving the best interest of the company. I am confident Bryn will serve his clients well and deliver outstanding service.
Sharon M.
Bryn has been a big asset to me as he is always thorough and has impeccable integrity. Bryn’s knowledge and skills have made it easy to accomplish projects on time and on budget. He always has a great attitude and is a pleasure to work with.
Ray C.
I had the pleasure of working with Bryn when he was our inside counsel. Our interactions were centered around supplier contracts and the occasional issue where I needed guidance. Bryn was always helpful, thoughtful and thorough in his responses. Very good to work with.
Scot R.