Grocery tax reduction causes issues locally

Published 6:00 pm Tuesday, September 5, 2023

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Shoppers at Brewton’s Walmart saw a few hiccups Friday and Saturday, and a few extra dollars added to their totals.
The problem arose when the new lower grocery tax went into effect across the state on Sept. 1.
In a statement from John Pennington, representing Walmart, the problem was immediately addresses and refunds were being made.
“Earlier today (Friday), some Walmart customers and Sam’s Club members across Alabama were incorrectly overcharged sales tax while shopping with us,” Pennington said.
“Effective Sept. 1, the sales tax rate on food decreased by one percentage point statewide. Our systems mistakenly charged both the old rate and the new rate at the time of sale. This issue has been fixed, and we could use your help informing some customers who may have been overcharged.
“We’re asking customers who used cash while shopping with us today to check their receipts. If they see they’ve been charged two separate sales tax amounts, bring that receipt to their Walmart store or Sam’s Club and speak with a member of management to get a refund for the higher of the two taxes.
“Customers who used credit cards and other forms of payment will receive a notification their refunds were automatically applied.”
Customers were lined up on Friday and Saturday seeking the refund of those extra charges at the local Walmart, who quickly corrected their errors with the refunds.

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