using a check @ Brick & Mortar

hey everybody!

I rarely use checks. I mostly either use cash or a card. But in a month or so, im planning on going to Chicago and purchasing a 5D and a 300 2.8 L and possibly a 400mm f/4. I prefer not to carry that much cash with me and would rather pay with a check. The check is a bank issued check with my name and address printed on it. It is from a deibt or checking account.
What are the procedures? Obvisously ID, ill probaby use my state license or u.a.e passport . Anything else to keep in mind? I would hate to drive back home empty handed on that day. Oh yes, it will be a camera store. I think calumet photo or on calumet street downtown chicago. Maybe Norman Camera in Michigan.

Any way to avoid state tax on purchases? hehe im an international student

thanks!

Contact the store(s) ahead of time and ask them about their check acceptance policies. Might save a trip.

If you buy at a store and take delivery of the items at that store, you are obligated to pay the prevailing sales tax rate at that location. If you were to buy something there and have them deliver it to your home, and your home was in a state in which they don't have any stores or other business locations, you could get away tax free on the initial purchase.

Most states, however, ask you to indicate how much you spent in such circumstances when you fill out your state tax form and contribute the sales taxes back to your home state. Of course, this isn't always much more than a somewhat voluntary and honesty-based policy.

Avoid pay sales tax is rather difficult these days even when salesmen are offer cash over CC. But I have heard that some stores can be convince to give out complimentary accessory when asked, like maybe some CFs or a tripod or something you think might equal the to the Tax. I'm not sure but a check that large might require declaration during withdrawal. You might consider getting travelers Checks some bank offer them for free to their customers.

well I was kiddin about the sales tax.


but thanks for all the input!