Sales Tax Calculator
Calculate sales tax by US state or reverse-calculate the pre-tax price from a total paid amount.
State Tax Rate: 0%
State-level rate only. Local taxes may apply.
Pre-tax Amount
$100.00
Sales Tax
$0.00
Total with Tax
$100.00
Understanding US Sales Tax
Sales tax in the United States is a consumption tax imposed at the point of sale on goods and certain services. Unlike many countries that use a national value-added tax (VAT), the US has no federal sales tax. Instead, sales tax is levied at the state and local levels, resulting in significant variation in rates across the country.
State vs. Local Rates
Each state sets its own base sales tax rate, which this calculator uses. However, counties, cities, and special taxing districts can add additional taxes on top of the state rate. For example, while New York's state rate is 4%, New York City adds 4.5%, bringing the combined rate to 8.875% with the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District surcharge. Always check your local combined rate for the most accurate total.
Exemptions and Special Rules
Five states charge no state-level sales tax at all: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. Many states also exempt specific categories like groceries, prescription medications, and clothing from sales tax. Some states offer periodic sales tax holidays, typically before the school year, when certain purchases are tax-free. The reverse calculation mode in this tool is useful when you have a receipt showing the total paid and want to determine the original pre-tax price and the exact tax amount charged.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for decisions specific to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which US states have no sales tax?
Five states have no state-level sales tax: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. However, Alaska allows local jurisdictions to levy their own sales taxes, so some areas within Alaska do charge sales tax.
What is use tax and how does it differ from sales tax?
Use tax applies when you purchase taxable goods from a seller who does not collect sales tax. The rate is typically the same as your state's sales tax rate. Most states require consumers to self-report and pay use tax on their annual tax return.
Do I have to pay sales tax on online purchases?
Yes, in most cases. Since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling in South Dakota v. Wayfair, states can require online retailers to collect sales tax even without a physical presence in the state. Most major online retailers now collect based on the shipping address.
Are local taxes added on top of state sales tax?
Yes, many cities, counties, and special districts add their own sales tax on top of the state rate. Combined rates can be significantly higher than the state rate alone. This calculator shows state-level rates only.