General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: How Amazon can offer free shipping to Prime members (hint: by charging them shipping) [View all]pugetres
(507 posts)met a man who also had an Amazon account. They liked each other and got married. They also decided to go Prime.
----------
Only one account was needed for both of us to enjoy Prime eligibility. We opted to purchase it on my account since I shop Amazon more often. But, his account is still active and I have not noticed any difference whatsoever in the advertized price of an item from a particular merchant based on whether or not it is being sold to a Prime account holder. None. Nada.
Different merchants charge different amounts for the same item, yes. Shipping costs can vary per seller also. But, a Prime eligible item offered by an individual seller/merchant costs the same no matter if the item is purchased by a Prime account holder or non-Prime account holder.
------------
SCOTUS decided that online interstate commerce would be burdened by forcing online merchants to collect sales tax in states where they do not have a presence. That could change in the near future but, for now, the onus is on the purchaser to be aware of their state's laws and pay the appropriate sales tax.