Homepage Blank California Std 236 Form
Outline

The California Std 236 form serves a crucial role for state employees and hotel operators alike, facilitating the exemption from transient occupancy taxes for state agency travelers. This form, officially titled the Hotel/Motel Transient Occupancy Tax Waiver, is designed to streamline the process of claiming tax exemptions for lodging expenses incurred during official duties. When a state employee stays at a hotel or motel, they can use this form to certify that their stay is being paid for by the State of California. By filling out the Std 236, the traveler confirms their status as a representative or employee of a state agency, while also providing essential details such as the hotel name, address, occupancy dates, and the amount paid. It is important for hotel operators to retain this waiver for their records, as it substantiates their tax reports. This form not only simplifies the reimbursement process for state employees but also ensures compliance with tax regulations, making it a vital tool for both parties involved.

Sample - California Std 236 Form

HOTEL/MOTEL TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX WAIVER
(EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE FOR STATE AGENCIES)
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
HOTEL / MOTEL NAME
TO:
DATE EXECUTED
HOTEL / MOTEL ADDRESS
(Number, Street, City, State, ZIP Code)
OCCUPANCY DATE(S)
$
, CALIFORNIA
I hereby declare under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing statements are true and correct.
HEADQUARTERS ADDRESS
STATE AGENCY NAME
TRAVELER'S NAME
(Printed or Typed)
AMOUNT PAID
(City)
TRAVELER'S SIGNATURE DATE SIGNED
STD. 236 (NEW 9-91)
EXECUTED AT:
This is to certify that I, the undersigned traveler, am a representative or employee of the State agency
indicated below; that the charges for the occupancy at the above establishment on the dates set forth
below have been, or will be paid for by the State of California; and that such charges are incurred in the
performance of my official duties as a representative or employee of the State of California.
HOTEL/MOTEL OPERATOR: RETAIN THIS WAIVER FOR YOUR FILES TO SUBSTANTIATE YOUR REPORTS.
PARTICIPATION BY OPERATORS IS STRICTLY VOLUNTARY
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
HOTEL/MOTEL TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAX WAIVER
(EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE FOR STATE AGENCIES)
STD. 236 (Rev 10 /2019)
HOTEL/MOTEL OPERATOR: RETAIN THIS WAIVER FOR YOUR FILES TO SUBSTANTIATE YOUR REPORTS.
PARTICIPATION BY OPERATORS IS STRICTLY VOLUNTARY
DATE EXECUTED
HOTEL / MOTEL NAME
TO:
HOTEL / MOTEL ADDRESS
(Number, Street, City, State, ZIP Code)
This is to certify that I, the undersigned traveler, am a representative or employee of the State agency
indicated below; that the charges for the occupancy at the above establishment on the dates set forth
below have been, or will be paid for by the State of California; and that such charges are incurred in the
performance of my official duties as a representative or employee of the State of California.
AMOUNT PAID
OCCUPANCY DATE(S)
$
STATE AGENCY NAME
HEADQUARTERS ADDRESS
TRAVELER'S NAME
(Printed or Typed)
I hereby declare under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing statements are true and correct.
EXECUTED AT:
(City)
TRAVELER'S SIGNATURE DATE SIGNED
, CALIFORNIA

Form Information

Fact Name Details
Form Purpose The California STD 236 form serves as a waiver for transient occupancy tax for state agency employees staying in hotels or motels while on official duty.
Governing Law This form is governed by California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 7280, which outlines tax exemptions for state agencies.
Voluntary Participation Participation by hotel and motel operators in accepting this waiver is strictly voluntary.
Retention Requirement Hotel and motel operators must retain this waiver for their records to substantiate their tax reports.
Traveler Declaration The traveler must declare under penalty of perjury that the information provided on the form is true and correct.
Form Revision Date The current version of the STD 236 form was revised in October 2019.
Required Information The form requires details such as the hotel/motel name, address, occupancy dates, and the state agency name.
Signature Requirement The form must be signed by the traveler to validate the exemption claim.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out California Std 236

After completing the California Std 236 form, it should be retained by the hotel or motel operator for their records. This helps ensure proper reporting and compliance with tax regulations.

  1. Begin by entering the Hotel/Motel Name in the designated field.
  2. Next, fill in the Hotel/Motel Address, including the number, street, city, state, and ZIP code.
  3. In the section for Occupancy Date(s), list the dates you stayed at the hotel or motel.
  4. Provide the name of the State Agency you represent.
  5. Enter the Amount Paid for your stay in the specified field.
  6. Fill in the Headquarters Address of your state agency.
  7. Print or type your name in the Traveler's Name section.
  8. Indicate the city where you are executing the form in the Executed At field.
  9. Sign the form in the Traveler's Signature section.
  10. Finally, enter the Date Signed on the form.

Obtain Answers on California Std 236

  1. What is the California Std 236 form?

    The California Std 236 form is a document used by state agency employees to certify their exemption from the transient occupancy tax when staying at hotels or motels. This form serves as a waiver that allows state employees to avoid paying this tax on accommodations while performing official duties.

  2. Who is eligible to use the Std 236 form?

    Only employees or representatives of state agencies in California are eligible to use the Std 236 form. It is important that the individual filling out the form is acting in their official capacity and that the expenses are being covered by the state agency.

  3. What information is required on the Std 236 form?

    The form requires several key pieces of information:

    • The name and address of the hotel or motel.
    • The occupancy dates.
    • The name of the state agency.
    • The amount paid for the accommodation.
    • The traveler's name, printed or typed.
    • The traveler's signature and the date signed.
    • The city where the form is executed.
  4. Is participation in using the Std 236 form mandatory for state employees?

    No, participation in using the Std 236 form is strictly voluntary. State employees can choose whether or not to utilize this exemption certificate when staying at hotels or motels.

  5. How should hotel or motel operators handle the Std 236 form?

    Hotel and motel operators should retain the completed Std 236 form for their records. This documentation is essential for substantiating their reports regarding transient occupancy tax exemptions. Proper record-keeping helps ensure compliance with tax regulations.

  6. What happens if a traveler does not complete the Std 236 form?

    If a traveler does not complete the Std 236 form, they may be required to pay the transient occupancy tax on their hotel or motel stay. The exemption is only valid when the form is properly filled out and submitted.

  7. Can the Std 236 form be used for personal travel?

    No, the Std 236 form is specifically intended for official travel conducted on behalf of a state agency. It cannot be used for personal travel or expenses unrelated to state duties.

  8. What is the penalty for providing false information on the Std 236 form?

    Providing false information on the Std 236 form is a serious offense. The individual signing the form declares under penalty of perjury that the information is true and correct. If found guilty of providing false information, the individual may face legal consequences, including potential fines or other penalties.

  9. How often is the Std 236 form updated?

    The Std 236 form is periodically reviewed and updated as necessary. The current version, as of October 2019, should always be used to ensure compliance with the latest regulations. It is advisable for travelers to check for any updates before their trips.

  10. Where can I obtain the Std 236 form?

    The Std 236 form can typically be obtained from the official website of the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration or directly from state agency administrative offices. It is important to ensure that the most current version of the form is used.

Common mistakes

Filling out the California Std 236 form can be straightforward, but mistakes often occur. One common error is failing to include the hotel/motel name. This information is crucial for the form's validity. Without it, the waiver may not be accepted, leading to unnecessary complications for both the traveler and the hotel operator.

Another frequent mistake is neglecting to provide the occupancy dates. This section specifies when the stay occurred or will occur. Omitting these dates can result in confusion and may invalidate the exemption certificate.

Many people also forget to clearly state the state agency name. This detail is essential, as it identifies the agency responsible for the charges. If this information is missing or incorrect, the form may not serve its intended purpose.

Additionally, travelers often overlook the amount paid section. Entering this amount is vital for record-keeping and accountability. Without it, the hotel may struggle to substantiate the reported figures, which can lead to discrepancies in tax reporting.

Another mistake involves the traveler's signature. Some individuals may forget to sign the form entirely or fail to provide their signature in the correct area. This omission can render the document incomplete and legally ineffective.

It is also common for people to misstate the executed city. This detail is important as it indicates where the form was signed. An incorrect city can lead to questions about the form's authenticity.

Lastly, travelers sometimes fail to provide the date signed. This information is crucial for tracking the timing of the waiver. Without it, there may be confusion regarding the validity period of the exemption.

By being aware of these common mistakes, individuals can ensure that their California Std 236 form is filled out accurately. This attention to detail can save time and prevent potential issues with tax exemptions.

Documents used along the form

The California Std 236 form is an important document used by state agencies to certify tax exemptions for transient occupancy. When using this form, several other documents may also be necessary to ensure compliance and proper record-keeping. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that accompany the California Std 236.

  • California Form BOE-401-A: This form is used to report and pay the Transient Occupancy Tax. It provides details about the hotel stays and the tax owed, ensuring that the hotel operator complies with state tax regulations.
  • Hotel/Motel Registration Form: This document collects information about the guest's stay, including personal details and payment methods. It serves as a record for the hotel and can be referenced if any disputes arise.
  • State Travel Authorization Form: Before traveling, state employees often need to complete this form to gain approval for travel expenses. It outlines the purpose of the trip and the expected costs, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately.
  • Expense Reimbursement Form: After the trip, state employees use this form to request reimbursement for travel expenses incurred. It details the costs associated with the trip, including lodging, meals, and transportation.
  • Invoice from Hotel/Motel: Hotels typically provide an invoice detailing the charges for the stay. This document is essential for both the traveler and the state agency to verify expenses and process payments accurately.

Using the California Std 236 form along with these additional documents helps maintain transparency and accountability in state travel expenditures. It’s crucial for both travelers and hotel operators to keep accurate records to avoid any potential issues down the line.

Similar forms

The California Std 236 form serves a specific purpose related to transient occupancy tax waivers for state agency employees. Several other documents share similarities with this form, primarily in their function of certifying tax exemptions or providing proof of official duties. Below are five documents that are comparable to the California Std 236 form:

  • IRS Form 1099-MISC: This form is used to report payments made to independent contractors and other non-employees. Like the Std 236, it certifies the nature of the services provided and the tax implications associated with those payments.
  • W-9 Form: The W-9 form is utilized by individuals and entities to provide their taxpayer identification number to those who will be making payments. Similar to the Std 236, it establishes the relationship between the parties and is essential for tax reporting purposes.
  • California Form BOE-401-A: This form is used for claiming a property tax exemption for certain government-owned properties. It shares the characteristic of certifying the eligibility for a tax exemption based on official status or purpose.
  • Travel Authorization Form: Often used by government agencies, this document is essential for approving travel expenses for employees. It certifies that the travel is for official duties, much like the Std 236, which confirms that hotel charges are incurred in the course of performing official responsibilities.
  • Expense Reimbursement Form: This form is submitted by employees to request reimbursement for expenses incurred while performing their job duties. Similar to the Std 236, it requires documentation and justification for the expenses related to official activities.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California Std 236 form, it is essential to ensure accuracy and compliance with the requirements. Here are some important dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

  • Do ensure that all information is filled out completely, including the hotel/motel name and address.
  • Do clearly state the dates of occupancy to avoid any confusion regarding the charges.
  • Do confirm that the charges will be paid by the State of California before submitting the form.
  • Do sign and date the form to validate your declaration under penalty of perjury.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; incomplete forms may lead to delays or rejections.
  • Don't use a personal credit card for payment; ensure that state funds are being used.
  • Don't forget to retain a copy of the completed form for your records and future reference.

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about the California Std 236 form:

  • It is mandatory for all state employees to use this form. Participation by operators is strictly voluntary.
  • This form exempts all hotel guests from paying taxes. It only applies to state agency representatives when on official business.
  • All hotels and motels automatically accept this waiver. Hotels must choose to accept the form and keep it for their records.
  • The form can be used for personal travel expenses. It is specifically for charges incurred during official duties.
  • There is no need to fill out the form completely. All sections must be completed to ensure its validity.
  • Once the form is submitted, it cannot be changed. Corrections can be made before it is signed and submitted.
  • Only certain state agencies can use this form. Any state agency can utilize the Std 236 when applicable.
  • The form is only valid for a specific time period. It remains valid as long as the travel is for official duties.
  • Travelers do not need to sign the form. A signature is required to certify the accuracy of the information provided.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the California Std 236 form, keep these key takeaways in mind:

  • Purpose: The form serves as a waiver for the transient occupancy tax for state agency employees.
  • Voluntary Participation: Hotel and motel operators can choose whether to accept the waiver; it is not mandatory.
  • Accurate Information: Ensure that all details, including the hotel name and address, are filled out correctly to avoid issues.
  • Signature Requirement: The traveler must sign the form to validate the exemption claim.
  • Retention: Hotel and motel operators should keep the completed form for their records to support tax reporting.
  • Official Duties: The charges covered by this waiver must be incurred while performing official state duties.
  • Perjury Statement: The traveler certifies the truthfulness of the information under penalty of perjury, emphasizing the importance of accuracy.