Effective October 1, 2009, there will be an increase in the District of Columbia cigarette excise tax and a new tax on “little cigars” and “moist snuff.” The cigarette excise tax will increase from 10 cents to 12.5 cents for each cigarette which raises the tax to $2.50 per pack of 20 cigarettes and $3.125 per pack of 25 cigarettes. A tax is imposed on the sale or possession of “little cigars” at 12.5 cents per little cigar. “Little cigar” means any cigar, other than a premium cigar, that weighs not more than 4.5 pounds per thousand. In addition, a tax is imposed on the sale or possession of “moist snuff” at 30 cents per ounce. “Moist snuff” means any finely cut, ground, or powdered tobacco that is not intended to be smoked and not intended to be placed in the nasal cavity.
The new excise tax rate applies to previously stamped floor stock of cigarettes, including cigarettes in vending machines, and all floor stock of little cigars and moist snuff held by Wholesalers, Retailers and Street Vendors for commercial distribution in DC.
Questions relating to this law change should be directed to the Office of Tax and Revenue, Audit Division, at (202) 442-6602 or via e-mail at sherri.weithers@dc.gov.