this might be a really dumb question, but is there any tax-back on goods bought in Thailand when coming back to the US (like we do when visiting Europe)?

Yup. You can do this at the International Terminal in BKK. Save your receipts, etc. I believe that I saw the kiosk on/near the airline departure check-ins.

Or. Bargain with the merchant to discount your purchase by the amount of the VAT in addition to their customary discounts. Then not include VAT in the receipt. We did this for purchases of tailored clothes and jewelry.

Speaking of airline check-ins, remember to save 500 BAHT per person for departure tax.

Hi50, do you know if the departure tax can be paid in USD?

No. Thai baht only.

thai baht only for departure tax...

they have a vat system just like europe but your purchases in one store must be all on the same day and exceed a certain amount which may be $50 or $75????

they will give you cash at the airport in the departures lounge after you go to the VAT office before checking in to your airline...all the way at the far end of the checkin desks...they have never looked at our stufff...

they also do a credit card refund

not all shops participate...for instance my jeweler does not