Ways to use it
It's not too late. An appraisal works either way.
Most people find out about the Black Book rule at the Autoplan counter. Whether you're about to register or did it last week, here's what to do.
Get the appraisal first, pay less PST at the counter
This is the simplest route. Your PST is worked out on the appraised value (or your purchase price, if that's higher) when you register, so there's nothing to claim back later.
Tip: ask your Autoplan broker for the Black Book value before you buy, or get an estimate from ICBC, so you know whether an appraisal is worth it.
- Order your appraisalFill in the form and upload photos. Choose "Not yet" when asked if you've registered.
- Get your FIN 320 by emailUsually within 1 hour. Print it, or have the PDF ready on your phone.
- Go to any Autoplan brokerBring the appraisal, the signed Transfer/Tax form (APV9T) and ID.
- Pay PST on the lower valueThe broker uses the higher of your purchase price and the appraised value instead of Black Book.
Already paid? Claim back the difference.
If you registered and paid PST on the Black Book value, you can still get the extra back. We send you the FIN 320 and the FIN 355/MV refund application. You sign and send them to the BC Ministry of Finance.
- Order your appraisalChoose "Yes, already registered" on the form and tell us the registration date.
- Get your FIN 320 and FIN 355/MV by emailWe send your signed FIN 320 appraisal together with the FIN 355/MV refund application, already filled in with your details.
- Check and sign the FIN 355/MVWe fill in your details and the estimated refund. Check the amount, sign it, and attach copies of your Transfer/Tax form (APV9T), proof of payment for the vehicle, the FIN 320 and your photo ID.
- Mail it to the Ministry of FinanceThe address is on the form and in our email. They review it and refund the PST you overpaid.
What you'll pay PST on
| Your situation | PST is charged on |
|---|---|
| You paid Black Book value or more | The purchase price. You don't need an appraisal. |
| You paid less than Black Book, no appraisal | The Black Book average wholesale value |
| You paid less than Black Book and the appraisal is also below Black Book | The higher of your purchase price and the appraised value |
Based on BC's PST rules for private sales of used vehicles. Some transfers, like certain gifts between family members, may be exempt from PST entirely. Ask your Autoplan broker.