How sales tax works in the U.S.
There is no national sales tax. States set a statewide rate, and many cities, counties and special districts add their own local rates. The rate you pay is the combined rate where you take delivery of the item.
Pick a state and the calculator fills in the state rate plus the average local rate as of January 1, 2026, from the Tax Foundation. You can type in your exact local rate instead. To work backward from a receipt, enter the total you paid to find the price before tax.
Good to know
- No statewide sales tax – Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon, though some Alaska towns charge a local tax.
- Highest combined averages – Louisiana, Tennessee, Washington, Arkansas and Alabama are among the highest, above 9%.
- Exemptions – many states exempt or reduce tax on groceries and prescription drugs.
- Online purchases – most online sellers must collect sales tax for the state you ship to.
Frequently asked questions
Can I deduct sales tax on my federal return?
If you itemize, you can deduct either state income tax or state and local sales tax, not both, within the SALT deduction cap.
How do I calculate the price before tax?
Divide the total by 1 plus the tax rate. With an 8% rate, a $108 total means a $100 price and $8 of tax.
Is sales tax charged on cars?
Yes, most states charge sales or excise tax on vehicles based on where you register the car, sometimes at a different rate than general purchases.