How much is a battery core charge

What is a core charge?

Persons who rebuild automotive parts such as water pumps, clutches, alternators, etc., make a "core" charge to the customer at the time a rebuilt part is sold. The core charge is a means used by the rebuilder to ensure a supply of rebuildable parts. This core charge generally follows the part through the distribution chain (rebuild, distributor, wholesaler, retailer) to the final sale to the consumer.

Is the core charge refunded?

The core charge will be refunded to the customer if the customer gives the seller a rebuildable part.

B&O tax due

The used part, which is returned to the seller and eventually to the rebuilder, is considered to be part of the consideration paid for the rebuilt part. The B&O tax is due on the full selling price, which includes the core charge.

Considered trade-in-reduced sales tax

The return of the used part is considered as a trade-in and a reduction of the value on which retail sales tax is due.

Batteries

In the case of batteries, the law requires the seller to make a five dollar minimum core charge to encourage the recycling or remanufacturing of batteries.

Return of rebuildable parts by dealer to supplier

The return of rebuildable parts by the dealer to the supplier is not a taxable transaction.


References

Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 82.08.010
Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 82.08.036
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 458-20-247
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 458-20-250
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 458-20-272

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If you have a car, then at some point, it’s likely that you’ll have to replace the battery. However, some people don’t realize that there is a hidden cost when buying a new battery known as a core charge.

The specifics of this charge can vary across retailers – so how does Walmart handle it? Here’s everything you need to know about Walmart’s battery core charge policies: 

Walmarts battery core charge program is an initiative for customers to return old car batteries for recycling. This can also be shown as a “Merchandising Fee” on a receipt. If returning a car battery purchased from Walmart in-store, customers can receive a $5-$20 battery core charge refund received in cash or store credit.

Want to know more about Walmart’s battery core charge and how you can get it refunded? Check out the info below!

How much is the Walmart battery core charge when I buy a new battery?

The battery core charge will usually be shown on your receipt when you buy a new battery from Walmart.

If you can’t see it mentioned specifically, it can sometimes be found under a “Merchandising Fee” heading.

Additionally, the amount you have to pay may vary from state to state, but will generally be in the range of $5-20. 

Can I get a refund for the Walmart battery core charge? 

Yes, if you take your old battery back to a Walmart store, you should usually be able to get your core charge refunded.

However, this may depend on whether you bought the old battery at Walmart or not and if you have the receipt to show proof of purchase. 

Rules on core charges are different between states, so if your old battery wasn’t from Walmart, then it is worth calling your local store to see whether their policy allows battery trade-ins from other retailers. 

How do I get a refund on the Walmart battery core charge?

If you bought your old car battery at Walmart, take it to the customer service desk along with the original receipt.

Once the receipt has been scanned, the charge will be returned – this may be refunded to your credit card, given in cash, or provided as a discount on your next Walmart purchase. 

If you didn’t buy your old battery at Walmart or if you’ve lost the original receipt, then a battery core charge refund may not be possible, depending on the store’s policy which may vary from state to state.

A possible exception to this is EverStart batteries – since these are a Walmart brand and fall under the Walmart warranty, it may be possible for a Walmart employee to use the battery’s serial number to look up details of its purchase in place of a receipt. 

To learn more, you can also see my full guide on the Walmart battery return policy, as your car battery may be eligible for a full refund or replacement.

Additionally, don’t forget to see my quick guide on where to find batteries in Walmart!

Conclusion

Walmart places a battery core charge on all car battery purchases, but it is usually fairly cheap and is fully refundable as long as you return the battery to Walmart at the end of its life.

However, if you lose the receipt or bought your old battery somewhere other than Walmart, you should check with your local store whether you can trade it in for a core charge refund. 

What is a core charge fee for a battery?

A core charge is a form of deposit held for the return of the used part. Core charges are set by the manufacturer or supplier and are based on the value of the materials in the part or the reusability of the old part. The core charge is added to the price of a part to encourage the return of the old part.

How much is a battery core charge at Walmart?

Answer: -Walmart generally charges a core charge of $5 USD to $20 USD for replacing car batteries. The core charge is generally refunded only if the old battery of the car is exchanged.

Does AutoZone charge battery core?

At AutoZone, we'll test or charge your battery for free.

Do you get money back for a core charge?

The core charge, sometimes called a "core price," is a deposit you pay until you return your old part. If you don't have the core at the time of purchase, you must pay the core charge. That charge is refunded to you when you return the core.