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Sales taxes in the United States are taxes placed on the sale or lease of goods and services in the United States. While no national general sales tax exists, the federal government levies several national selective sales taxes on the sale or lease of particular goods and services. Furthermore, forty-five states, the District of Columbia, and Guam impose general sales taxes that apply to the sale or lease of most goods and some services, and states also may levy selective sales taxes on the sale or lease of particular goods or services. States may also delegate to local governments the authority to impose additional general or selective sales taxes.

Sales tax is calculated by multiplying the purchase price by the applicable tax rate. Tax rates vary widely by jurisdiction and range from less than 1% to over 10%. Sales tax is collected by the seller at the time of sale. Use tax is self assessed by a buyer who has not paid sales tax on a taxable purchase. Unlike the value added tax, a sales tax is imposed only once, at the retail level. However, in cases where items are sold at retail more than once, such as used cars, the sales tax can be charged on the same item indefinitely.

The definition of retail sales and what goods and services are taxable vary among the states. Nearly all jurisdictions provide numerous categories of goods and services that are exempt from sales tax, or taxed at reduced rates. The purchase of goods for further manufacture or for resale is uniformly exempt from sales tax. Most jurisdictions exempt food sold in grocery stores, prescription medications, and many agricultural supplies.

Sales taxes, including those imposed by local governments, are generally administered at the state level. States imposing sales tax require retail sellers to collect tax from customers, file returns, and remit the tax to the state. Procedural rules vary widely. Sellers generally must collect tax from in-state purchasers unless the purchaser provides an exemption certificate. Most states allow or require electronic remittance. States are prohibited from requiring out of state sellers to collect tax unless the seller has established a physical presence in the state sufficient to establish a nexus.^[1]

Taxable items[link]

The average effective sales tax for different income groups of the combined 50 States (2007). The effective tax shown is calculated using a microsimulation model based on the 1990 Public Use Microdata Sample of census records and statistical data from the Internal Revenue Service for undisclosed years.^[2]

Sales taxes are imposed only on taxable transfers of goods or services. The tax is computed as the tax rate times the taxable transaction value. Rates vary by state, and by locality within a state.^[3] Not all types of transfers are taxable. The tax may be imposed on sales to consumers and to businesses.^[4]

All states exempt certain types of goods from sales and use tax. Those states that tax services tax only certain services. Some states tax certain types of property rentals. Most transfers of intangible property are not subject to sales tax. Definitions become critical.

Taxable sales[link]

Transfers of tangible personal property for cash or the promise to pay cash (sales) are often subject to sales tax, with exceptions.^[5] Sales tax does not apply to transfers of real property, though some states impose a real estate transfer or documentary tax on such transfers. All states provide some exemptions from sales tax for wholesale sales, that is, sales for resale.^[6] However, some states tax sales for resale through vending machines.^[7]

Most states also exempt bulk sales, such as sales of an entire business. Most states exempt from sales tax goods purchased for use as ingredients or parts in further manufacturing. Buyers in exempt sales must follow certain procedures or face tax.

Sales to businesses and to consumers are generally taxed the same, except as noted in the preceding paragraph. Businesses receive no offset to sales tax collection and payment obligations for their own purchases. This differs significantly from value added taxes.

The place and manner of sale may affect whether a sale of particular goods is taxable. Many states tax food for consumption on premises but not food sold for off premises consumption.^[8] The use to which goods are put may also affect whether the sale is subject to tax. Goods used as ingredients in manufacturing may avoid tax, where the same goods used as supplies may not.^[9]

Rentals[link]

Many states tax rental of tangible personal property. Often the tax is not dependent on the use to which the property will be put.

Exempt organizations[link]

Many states exempt charitable, religious, and certain other organizations from sales or use taxes on goods purchased for the organization's use.^[10] Generally such exemption does not apply to a trade or business conducted by the organization.^[11]

Use tax[link]

The states imposing sales taxes also impose a similar tax on buyers of taxable property or services in those cases where sales tax is not paid. Use taxes are functionally equivalent to sales taxes. The sales and use taxes, taken together, "provide a uniform tax upon either the sale or the use of all tangible personal property irrespective of where it may be purchased."^[12] Some states permit offset of sales taxes paid in other states on the purchased goods against use tax in the taxpayer's state.^[13]

Taxable value[link]

The amount subject to sales tax is generally the net sales price. Such price is generally after any applicable discounts.^[14]

Some states exempt a portion of sales or purchase price from tax for some classes of goods.^[15]

Taxable goods[link]

No state imposes sales tax on all types of goods. State laws vary widely as to what goods are subject to tax. Food for preparation and consumption in the home is generally not taxable, nor are prescription medications. By contrast, restaurant meals are often taxed.^[16] See the table below for a brief sample.

Many states provide exemptions for specific types of goods, and not for others. Certain types of foods may be exempt, and certain types taxable, even when sold in a grocery store for home consumption.^[17] Lists of what goods are taxable and what are not may be voluminous.^[18]

Services[link]

Most states tax some services, and some states tax many services. However, taxation of services is the exception rather than the rule.^[19] Few states tax the services of a doctor, dentist, or attorney. Services performed in connection with sale of tangible personal property are often taxed. Most states, however, tax services that are an integral part of producing goods, such as printing or cabinet making.^[20]

Telecommunications services are subject to a tax similar to a sales tax in most states. Only a few states tax internet access or other information services.

Construction services are rarely taxed by states. Materials used in construction of real property may be subject to sales tax to the builder, the subcontractor, or the person engaging the builder, or may be wholly exempt from sales tax.

Intangible property[link]

Most sales tax laws do not apply to most payments for intangible property. Some states tax certain forms of intangible property transfers or licenses. A common transaction subject to sales tax is license of "shrink wrap" software.^[21] State courts have often found that numerous transfers of intangible rights are to be considered subject to sales tax where not specifically exempted.^[22]

Sales for resale[link]

All states exempt from sales or use tax purchases of goods made for resale in the same form.^[23] In many states, resale includes rental of the purchased property. Where the purchased property is not exactly the property resold, the purchase may be taxable. Further, use of the property before sale may defeat the resale exemption.^[24] Goods purchased for free distribution may be taxed on purchase in some states, and not in others.^[25]

Goods purchased to be used as ingredients in manufacturing tangible personal property are generally not taxable. Purchases of food by a restaurant generally are not taxable in those states that tax sales by restaurants, even though the ingredients are transformed. Steel purchased to be part of machines is generally not taxable. However, supplies consumed by the same businesses may be taxable. Criteria vary widely by state.^[26]

Purchase of goods to be provided as part of performance of services may be taxed. Airlines and hotels may be taxed on purchases of food to be provided as part of their services, such as in-flight meals or free breakfast.^[27] Where there is a separate charge for such goods, they may be considered purchased for resale.^[28]

Distinguishing goods from nontaxable items[link]

Since services and intangibles are typically not taxed, the distinction between a taxable sale of tangible property and a nontaxable service or intangible transfer is a major source of controversy.^[29] Many state tax administrators and courts look to the "true object" or "dominant purpose" of the transaction to determine if it is a taxable sale.^[30] Some courts have looked at the significance of the property in relation to the services provided.^[31] Where property is sold with an agreement to provide service (such as an extended warranty or service contract), the service agreement is generally treated as a separate sale if it can be purchased separately. Michigan and Colorado courts have adopted a more holistic approach, looking at various factors for a particular transaction.

Collection, payment and tax returns[link]

Sales taxes are collected by vendors in most states. Use taxes are self assessed by purchasers.

Many states require individuals and businesses who regularly make sales to register with the state. All states imposing sales tax require that taxes collected be paid to the state at least quarterly. Most states have thresholds at which more frequent payment is required. Some states provide a discount to vendors upon payment of collected tax.

Sales taxes collected in some states are considered to be money owned by the state, and consider a vendor failing to remit the tax as in breach of its fiduciary duties.

Sellers of taxable property must file tax returns with each jurisdiction in which they are required to collect sales tax. Most jurisdictions require that returns be filed monthly, though sellers with small amounts of tax due may be allowed to file less frequently. Sales tax returns typically report all sales, taxable sales, sales by category of exemption, and the amount of tax due. Where multiple tax rates are imposed (such as on different classes of property sold), these amounts are typically reported for each rate. Some states combine returns for state and local sales taxes, but many local jurisdictions require separate reporting. Some jurisdictions permit or require electronic filing of returns.

Purchasers of goods who have not paid sales tax in their own jurisdiction must file use tax returns to report taxable purchases. Many states permit such filing for individuals as part of individual income tax returns.

Exemption certificates[link]

Purchasers are required to pay sales tax unless they present the seller with certification that the purchase is exempt from tax (exemption certificate). The certificate must be on a form approved by the state. 38 states have approved use of the Multistate Tax Commission's Uniform Sales and Use Tax Certificate.

Penalties[link]

Persons required to file sales or use tax returns who do not file are subject to penalties. Persons who fail to properly pay sales and use tax when due are also subject to penalties. The penalties tend to be based on the amount of tax not paid, and vary by jurisdiction.

Tax audits[link]

All states imposing sales taxes examine sales and use tax returns of many taxpayers each year. Upon such audit, the state may propose adjustment of the amount of tax due. Taxpayers have certain rights of appeal, which vary by jurisdiction. Some states require payment of tax prior to judicial appeal, and some states consider payment of tax an admission of the tax liability.

Constitutional limitations[link]

The United States Constitution generally does not limit the ability of a state to impose a sales or use tax on persons using goods within the state. However, it does impose limitations on each state's ability to tax interstate commerce under the Commerce Clause and the Due Process Clause. Only sellers with some minimal connection (nexus) with the state can be required to collect sales tax.^[32]

Several state constitutions impose limitations on sales tax. These limitations restrict or prohibit the taxing of certain items, such as food,^[33]

By jurisdiction[link]

Sales tax rates and what is taxed vary by jurisdiction. The following table compares taxes on selected classes of goods in the states. Significant other differences apply. Following the table is abbreviated coverage of selected sales tax rates by state.

Summary table[link]

(1) Some states tax food, but allow an (income) tax credit to compensate poor households. They are: HI, ID, KS, OK, SD, and WY. (2) Includes statewide local tax of 1.0% in California and 1.0% in Virginia. (3) Tax rate may be adjusted annually according to a formula based on balances in the unappropriated general fund and the school foundation fund. (4) Food sales are subject to local sales taxes.

Alabama[link]

Alabama has a state general sales tax of 4.00%, plus any additional local taxes which can amount to a combined total sales tax of up to 12 percent in some cities [2]. Alabama is one of several states that do not exempt food from state taxes.^[37] The capital of Montgomery has a sales tax of 10%.^[38] The state's largest city, Birmingham, has a sales tax of 10 percent.^[39][40]

Alaska[link]

There is no state sales tax in Alaska;^[41] however, local governments - which include boroughs, the Alaska equivalent of counties, and municipalities - may levy up to 7.5 percent. As of January 2009, 108 boroughs and municipalities of them do so.^[42] Municipal sales taxes are collected in addition to borough sales taxes, if any. Regulations and exemptions vary widely across the state.^[43] The two largest cities, Anchorage and Fairbanks, do not charge a local sales tax.^[42] The state capital, Juneau, has a 5 percent sales tax rate.^[44]

Arizona[link]

Arizona has a transaction privilege tax (TPT) that differs from a "true" sales tax in that it is a gross receipts tax, a tax levied on the gross receipts of the vendor and not a liability of the consumer.^[45] (As explained in Arizona Administrative Code rule R15-5-2202,^[46] vendors are permitted to pass the amount of the tax on to the consumer, but remain the liable parties for the tax to the state.) TPT is imposed under 16 tax classifications (as of November 1, 2006),^[47] with the tax rate most commonly encountered by Arizona consumers (e.g., for retail transactions) set at 6.6 percent.

Cities and counties can add as much as 6 percent to the total rate.^[48] Food for home consumption and prescription drugs (including prescription drugs and certain prescribed homeopathic medication) are two of many items of tangible personal property that are statutorily exempt from the state retail TPT; cities can charge tax on food, and many do. Arizona's TPT is one of the few excise taxes in the country imposed on contracting activities rather than sales of construction materials.^[49] The capital and largest city of Phoenix has a 2% TPT rate.^[50]

A law passed in July 2011 created a requirement that Arizona residents declare how much use tax they owe on purchases made from out-of-state online retailers and catalogs.^[51]

Arkansas[link]

Arkansas has a state sales tax of 7.00%, plus any additional local taxes;^[52] for instance, Little Rock charges a 0.5% city sales tax.^[53]

Effective July 1, 2011, Arkansas state sales tax on unprepared food (groceries) was reduced to 1.5% from 2%. Sales taxes on groceries had previously been reduced to 2% from 3% on July 1, 2009 and to 3% from 6% on July 1, 2007. Local sales taxes on groceries remained unchanged.

Effective March 1 2004, Arkanasas state sales tax is 6.00% on most items but most cities and counties have their own sales tax so charging a flat 6% for sales tax probably won't work. - Here is a quick form to determine how much to charge - http://www.arkansas.gov/dfa/excise_tax_v2/st_zip.html.

California[link]

California has a sales tax of 7.25%, which can total up to 9.75% with local sales tax included.^[54] Partly this rate compensates for the much reduced property tax revenue brought on by Proposition 13. Sales and use taxes in the state of California are collected by the publicly elected Board of Equalization, whereas income and franchise taxes are collected by the Franchise Tax Board.

In general,sales tax is required on all purchases of tangible personal property to its ultimate consumer. Services are not subject to sales tax (but may be subject to other taxes). Liability for sales tax attaches to the seller, not the buyer; but the seller is allowed by law to collect the tax from the buyer (and if the seller does so, the buyer is obligated to pay it).^{[citation needed]} Unprepared food, bakery items, hot beverages, livestock, crops and seeds, fertilizer used to grow food, certain devices related to alternative energy, and one-time sales are among the items exempt from sales tax.

Critics of the current sales tax regime charge that it gives local governments an incentive to promote commercial development (through zoning and other regulations) over residential development, including the use of eminent domain condemnation proceedings to transfer real estate to higher sales tax generating businesses.^[55]

Colorado[link]

Colorado's state sales tax is 2.9% with some cities and counties levying additional taxes.^[56] Denver's tangibles tax is 3.62%, with food eaten away from the home being taxed at 4%, most unprepared food (groceries) are exempt. There is also a football stadium tax (expired 12/31/11), mass transit tax, and scientific and cultural facilities tax. The total sales tax varies by city and county. Total sales tax on an item purchased in Falcon, Colorado, would be 4.9% (2.9% state, 1% county, and 1% RTA). The sales tax rate in Larimer County is roughly 7.5%. Most transactions in Denver and the surrounding area are taxed at a total of about 8%. The sales tax rate for non food items in Denver is 7.62%. Food & Beverage items total 8.00%, and Rental Cars total 11.25%^[57]

Connecticut[link]

Connecticut has a 6.35% sales tax, with no additional local taxes.^[58] Most non-prepared food products are exempt, as are most prescription and nonprescription medications, all internet services, all magazine and newspaper subscriptions, and textbooks (for college students only).^[59] Also Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs are tax exempt per Connecticut State Law

Shipping and delivery charges (including charges for U.S. postage) made by a retailer to a customer are subject to sales and use taxes when provided in connection with the sales of taxable tangible personal property or services. The tax applies even if the charges are separately stated and applies regardless of whether the shipping or delivery is provided by the seller or by a third party. No tax is due on shipping and delivery charges in connection with any sale that is not subject to sales or use tax. Shipping or delivery charges related to sales for resale or sales of exempt items are not taxable. Likewise, charges for mailing or delivery services are not subject to tax if they are made in connection with the sale of nontaxable services.^[60]

Delaware[link]

Delaware does not assess a sales tax on consumers. The state does, however, impose a tax on the gross receipts of most businesses. Business and occupational license tax rates range from 0.096 percent to 1.92 percent, depending upon the category of business activity. However, it does charge a 3.75% 'document' fee on vehicle registrations.

District of Columbia[link]

Washington, D.C., has a sales tax rate of 6.00%. The tax is imposed on sale of tangible personal property and selected services. A 10% tax is imposed on liquor sold for off premises consumption, 10% on restaurant meals (including carry-out) and rental cars, 12% on parking, and 14% on hotel accommodations. Groceries, prescription and non-prescription drugs, and residential utilities services are exempt from the District's sales tax.^[61]

The District once had two sales tax holidays each year, one during "back-to-school" and one immediately preceding Christmas. The 'back to school' tax holiday was repealed on May 12, 2009.^[62]

Florida[link]

Florida has a general sales tax rate of 6%.^[63] The tax is imposed on the sale or rental of goods, the sale of admissions, the lease, license, or rental of real property, the lease or rental of transient living accommodations, and the sale of a limited number of services such as commercial pest control, commercial cleaning, and certain protection services. There are a variety of exemptions from the tax, including groceries and prescriptions.^[64]

Sales tax and discretionary sales surtax are calculated on each taxable transaction. Florida uses a “bracket system” for calculating sales tax when the transaction falls between two whole dollar amounts. Multiply the whole dollar amount by the tax rate (6 percent plus the county surtax rate) and use the bracket system to figure the tax on the amount less than a dollar. The Department of Revenue has rate tables (Form DR-2X) to help you.^[65]

A "discretionary sales surtax" may be imposed by the counties of up to 1.5%, charged at the rate of the destination county (if shipped). This is 1% in most counties, 0.5% in many, 1.5% in a few such as Leon, and 0.25% in one county (Alachua). A few have none at all. Most have an expiration date, but a few do not. Only the first $5,000 of a large purchase is subject to the surtax rate.^[66] Most counties levy the surtax for education or transportation improvements.

There are annual sales tax holidays, such as a back-to-school holiday on clothing, books, and school supplies under a certain price, as well as one in June 2007 to promote hurricane preparedness. The 2008 Legislators did not enact any sales tax holidays.

Florida also permits counties to raise a "tourist development tax" of up to an additional 6% for stays of 6 months or less on any hotel, apartment hotel, motel, resort motel, apartment, apartment motel, roominghouse, mobile home park, recreational vehicle park, condominium, or timeshare resort.^[67]

Georgia[link]

Georgia has a 4% state sales tax rate. Groceries are exempt from the state sales tax, but still subject to tax by the local sales tax rate. Counties may impose local sales tax of 1%, 2%, or 3%, consisting of up to three 1% local-option sales taxes (out of a set of five) as permitted by Georgia law. These include a SPLOST, a homestead exemption (HOST), and one for public schools which can be put forth for a referendum by the school board instead of the county commission (in cooperation with its city councils). Also, the city of Atlanta imposes an additional 1% municipal-option sales tax (MOST), as allowed by special legislation of the Georgia General Assembly, solely for the purpose of fixing its water and sewerage systems.

As of July 2008, total sales tax rates in Georgia are 3% for groceries and 7% for other items in the vast majority of its 159 counties. A few counties charge only 2% local tax (6% total on non-grocery items), and four partially exempt groceries from the local tax by charging 2% on food, and 3% (7% total) on other items. Fulton and DeKalb counties charge 1% for MARTA, and adjacent metro Atlanta counties may do so by referendum if they so choose. For the portions of Fulton and DeKalb within the city of Atlanta, the total is at 8% (4% on groceries) due to the MOST.^[68]

Similar to Florida and certain other states, Georgia used to have two sales tax holidays per year. One was for back-to-school sales the first weekend in August, but sometimes starting at the end of July. A second usually occurred in October, for energy-efficient home appliances with the Energy Star certification. There were no sales tax holidays in 2010.

Georgia has many exemptions available to specific businesses and industries. To identify potential exemptions, businesses and consumers must research the laws and rules for sales and use tax and review current exemption forms.^[69]

Guam[link]

Guam has no general sales tax imposed on the consumer with the exception of admissions, use, and hotel occupancy taxes; however, businesses must pay 4% tax on their monthly gross income. There are no separate municipal, county, school district or improvement district taxes.^[70]

Use tax is 4% on non-exempt personal property imported to Guam. Hotel tax is 11% of daily room rate. Alcoholic beverage tax varies depending on the beverage. Additionally there are tobacco taxes, real property taxes, amusement taxes, recreational facility taxes, and liquid fuel taxes.^[71]

Hawaii[link]

Hawaii does not have a sales tax per se, but it does have a gross receipts tax (called the General Excise Tax) and a Use Tax which apply to nearly every conceivable type of transaction (including services), and is technically charged to the business rather than the consumer. Hawaii law allows business to pass on the tax to the consumer in similar fashion to a sales tax.

Unlike other states, rent, medical services and perishable foods are subject to the excise tax. Also, unlike other states, businesses may or may not show the tax separately on the receipt, as it is technically part of the selling price. 4.0% is charged at retail with an additional 0.5% surcharge in the City and County of Honolulu (for a total of 4.5% on Oahu sales), and 0.5% is charged on wholesale.^[72] However, the state also allows "tax on tax" to be charged, which effectively means a customer can be billed as much as 4.166% (4.712% on Oahu). The exact dollar or percentage amount to be added must be quoted to customers within or along with the price. The 0.5% surcharge on Oahu was implemented to fund the new rail transport system.^[73] As with sales tax in other states, nonprofit organizations may apply for an exemption from the tax.^[74]

Hawaii also imposes a “Use tax” on businesses that provide services that are “LANDED” In Hawaii. One example is: As a property owner in Hawaii you contract with a mainland architect to design your Hawaii home. Even though the architect perhaps does all of their work in a mainland location the architect needs to pay the State of Hawaii a 4% Use tax on the architect’s fee because the designed house is located in Hawaii. That holds true even if the house is never built. The tax is on the produced product which is the design and provided building plans.

Taking that example a step further. A major retail chain on the US mainland contracts with a mainland architect to design a store in Hawaii. Because the store is located in Hawaii the architect is required to pay the State of Hawaii 4% on the entire fee they charge the retail chain to design the Hawaii store.

Idaho[link]

Idaho has a 6.0% state sales tax. Some localities levy an additional local sales tax.^[75]

Illinois[link]

Illinois' sales and use tax scheme includes four major divisions: Retailers' Occupation Tax, Use Tax, Service Occupation Tax and the Service Use Tax.^[76] Each of these taxes is administered by the Illinois Department of Revenue. The Retailers' Occupation Tax is imposed upon persons engaged in the business of selling tangible personal property to purchasers for use or consumption. It is measured by the gross receipts of the retailer. The base rate of 6.25% is broken down as follows: 5% State, 1% City, 0.25% County. Local governments may impose additional tax resulting in a combined rate that ranges from the State minimum of 6.25% to a current high of 11.50% in certain business districts in Cook County.^[77]

Springfield charges 8.00% total (including state tax). A complementary Use Tax is imposed upon the privilege of using or consuming property purchased anywhere at retail from a retailer. Illinois registered retailers are authorized to collect the Use Tax from their customers and use it to offset their obligations under the Retailers' Occupation Tax Act. Since the Use Tax rate is equivalent to the corresponding Retailers' Occupation Tax rate, the amount collected by the retailer matches the amount the retailer must submit to the Illinois Department of Revenue. The combination of these two taxes is what is commonly referred to as "sales tax." If the purchaser does not pay the Use Tax directly to a retailer (for instance, on an item purchased from an Internet seller), they must remit it directly to the Illinois Department of Revenue.^[78]

The Service Occupation Tax is imposed upon the privilege of engaging in service businesses and is measured by the selling price of tangible personal property transferred as an incident to providing a service. The Service Use Tax is imposed upon the privilege of using or consuming tangible personal property transferred as an incident to the provision of a service. An example would be a printer of business cards. The printer owes Service Occupation Tax on the value of the paper and ink transferred to the customer in the form of printed business cards. The serviceperson may satisfy this tax by paying Use Tax to his supplier of paper and ink or, alternatively, may charge Service Use Tax to the purchaser of the business cards and remit the amount collected as Service Occupation Tax on the serviceperson's tax return. The service itself, however, is not subject to tax.

Qualifying food, drugs, medicines and medical appliances^[79] have sales tax of 1% plus local home rule tax depending on the location where purchased. Newspapers and magazines are exempt from sales tax as are legal tender, currency, medallions, bullion or gold or silver coinage issued by the State of Illinois, the government of the United States of America, or the government of any foreign country.

The city of Chicago has the highest total sales tax of all major U.S. cities (9.5%).^[80] It was previously higher (10.25%), however, it was reduced when Cook County lowered its sales tax by .5% in July 2010 and another .25% in January 2012.^[81] Chicago charges a 2.25% food tax on regular groceries and drug purchases, and has an additional 3% soft drink tax (totaling 12.5%). An additional 1% is charged for prepared food and beverage purchases in the Loop and nearby neighborhoods (the area roughly bordered by Diversey Parkway, Ashland Avenue, the Stevenson Expressway, and Lake Michigan).

Illinois requires residents who make purchases online or when traveling out-of-state to report those purchases on their state income tax form and pay use tax.

Indiana[link]

Indiana has a 7% state sales tax. The tax rate was raised from 6% on April 1, 2008, to offset the loss of revenue from the statewide property tax reform, which is expected to significantly lower property taxes. Untaxed retail items include medications, water, ice and unprepared, raw staple foods or fruit juices. Many localities, inclusive of either counties or cities, in the state of Indiana also have a sales tax on restaurant food and beverages consumed in the restaurant or purchased to go. Revenues are usually used for economic development and tourism projects. This additional tax rate may be 1% or 2% or other amounts depending on the county in which the business is located. For example, in Marion County, the sales tax for restaurants is 9%. There is an additional 2% tax on restaurant sales in Marion County to pay for Lucas Oil Stadium and expansion of the Indiana Convention Center.

Iowa[link]

Iowa has a 5% state sales tax, including 1% dedicated to local school districts. A local option sales tax of 1% is imposed in most cities and in the unincorporated portion of most counties, bringing the total up to a maximum of 7%. There is no tax on most unprepared food. The Iowa Department of Revenue provides information about local option sales taxes,^[82] including sales tax rate lookup.Iowa also has sales tax on services when rendered, furnished, or performed^[83].

Kansas[link]

Kansas has a 6.3% state sales tax as of July 1, 2010. More than 700 jurisdictions within the state (cities, counties, and special districts) may impose additional taxes. For example, in the capital city of Topeka, retailers must collect 6.3% for the state, 1.15% for Shawnee County, and 1% for the city, for a total rate of 8.45%. As of July 2010, the highest rate was 8.85%, in Douglas County.

Kentucky[link]

Kentucky has a 6% state sales tax. Most staple grocery foods are exempt. Alcohol sales were previously exempt until April 1, 2009, when a 6% rate was applied to this category as well.

Louisiana[link]

Louisiana has a 4% state sales tax: 3.97% to sales tax and .03% to Louisiana tourism district.^[84] The state sales tax is not charged on unprepared food. There are also taxes on the parish (county) level and some on the city levels, Baton Rouge has a 5% sales tax.^[85] Parishes may add local taxes up to 5%, while local jurisdictions within parishes may add more. In Allen Parish, the combined sales tax is up to 10% (0.7% for Parish Council, 3% for School Board, 1% to 1.3% for City/Town).^[86] Louisiana also bids out sales tax audits to private companies, with many being paid on a percentage collected basis.

Orleans Parish collects the maximum 5% tax rate for a total of 9% on general purpose items.^[87] This 5% is also charged on groceries.

Maine[link]

Maine has a 5% general, service provider and use tax.^[88] The tax on lodging and prepared food is 7% and short term auto rental is 10%. These are all generally known as "sales tax".

Maryland[link]

Maryland has a 6% state sales and use tax (raised from 5% in 2007) as of January 3, 2008, with exceptions for medicine^[89], residential energy, and most non-prepared foods^[90]. While most goods are taxed, many services (e.g., repair^[91], haircuts, accounting) are not. Maryland's sales tax includes Internet purchases and other mail items such as magazine subscriptions.^{[citation needed]} Maryland has a "back-to-school" tax holiday on a limited number of consumer items.^{[citation needed]} On July 1, 2011 the selective sales tax on alcohol was raised to from 6% to 9%.^{[citation needed]}

Massachusetts[link]

Massachusetts has a 6.25% state sales tax (raised from 5% in 2009). Meal tax on prepared food is 6.25% statewide, however in some towns, voters chose to add 0.75% (raising the tax to 7%), with that incremental revenue coming back to the town. Sales tax on liquor was repealed in a 2010 referendum vote.

Michigan[link]

Michigan has a 6% sales tax (raised from 4% in 1994). Michigan has a use tax of 6%, which is a tax that is applied to items that were brought into Michigan but not bought there, and of which taxes were not paid to the state in which the item was bought in. The tax is supposed to be paid when filing a resident's annual income tax.^[92] A service tax was approved in September 2007, effective December 1, 2007, allowing certain services to be taxed. The services tax was repealed the same day it went into effect. There is no local sales tax in Michigan. There is now a Michigan sales tax on the total amount of online orders, meaning that shipping charges are now taxed. Food, periodicals,^[93] and prescription drugs are not taxed. Restaurants, however, do have a tax, but the tax is for the service and not on the food. Michigan also has recently introduced a business tax called the Michigan Business Tax (MBT) which replaces the Single Business Tax (SBT).^[94]

While not necessarily a tax, Michigan has the highest bottle deposit for carbonated beverages ($0.10) in the United States; however, it is refunded as an incentive for recycling. The bottle deposit was originally instituted in 1978 as a litter control initiative.

Minnesota[link]

Minnesota currently has a 6.875% statewide sales tax. The statewide portion consists of two parts: a 6.5% sales tax with receipts going to the state General Fund, and a 3/8 of 1 percent tax going to arts and environmental projects. The 3/8 of 1 percent tax was passed by a statewide referendum on Nov. 4, 2008, and went into effect on July 1, 2009.^[95] Generally, food (not including prepared food, some beverages such as soda pop, and other items such as candy) and clothing are exempt from the sales tax. Prescription drugs are also exempt.^[96]

Local units of government may, with legislative approval, impose additional general sales taxes. As of July 1, 2008, an additional 0.25% Transit Improvement tax was phased in across five counties in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area for transit development. These counties are Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Dakota, and Washington. A 0.15% sales tax is imposed in Hennepin County to finance the Minnesota Twins' new Target Field. Several cities impose their own citywide sales tax: Saint Paul (0.5%), Minneapolis (0.5%), Rochester (0.5%), and Duluth (1%).

These additional taxes increase the total general sales tax rates to 7.875% in Duluth, 7.775% in Minneapolis, 7.625% in Saint Paul, and 7.375% in Rochester.

In addition to general sales taxes, local units of government can, again with legislative approval, impose sales taxes on certain items. Current local option taxes include a "lodging" tax in Duluth (3%), Minneapolis (3%), and Rochester (4%), as well as served "food and beverage" tax in Duluth (2.25%).

Alcohol is taxed at an additional 2.5% gross receipts tax rate above the statewide 6.875% sales tax rate, for a total rate of 9.375%, not including any applicable local taxes. Which adds up to 10.375% in Duluth, 10.275% in Minneapolis, 10.125% in Saint Paul, and 9.875% in Rochester.

Mississippi[link]

Mississippi has a 7% state sales tax. Cities and towns may implement an additional tourism tax on restaurant and hotel sales. The city of Tupelo has a 0.25% tax in addition to other taxes. Restaurant and fast food tax is 9%. The city of Hattiesburg also has a 9% sales tax on Restaurant and fast food tax.

Missouri[link]

Missouri imposes a sales tax upon all sales of tangible personal property, as well as some "taxable services";^[97] it also charges a use tax for the "privilege of storing, using or consuming within this state any article of tangible personal property."^[98] The state rate, including conservation and other taxes, is 4.225%, and counties, municipalities, and other political subdivisions charge their own taxes.^[99] Those additional local taxes combined with "community improvement district," "transportation development district," and "museum district" taxes can result in merchandise sales taxes in excess of 10%.^[100] The state sales tax rate on certain foods is 1.225%.^[101]

Missouri provides several exemptions from sales tax, such as purchases by charitable organizations or some common carriers (as opposed to "contract carriers").^[102] Missouri also excludes some purchases from taxation on the grounds that such sales are not sales at retail; these include sales to political subdivisions.^[103] The Supreme Court of Missouri in August, 2009, ruled that when a sale is excluded from taxation - as opposed to exempt from taxation - the seller must self-accrue sales tax on its purchase of the goods and remit the tax on such purchases it made.^[104] This decision was reversed by two similar - but not identical - statutes added during the 2010 general assembly's regular session.

Although the purchaser is obligated to pay the tax, the seller is obligated to remit the tax, and when the seller fails to remit, the obligation to pay falls on him. As compensation for collecting and remitting taxes, and as an incentive to timely remit taxes, sellers may keep two percent of all taxes collected each period.^[105] There are two exceptions to the general rule that the seller must pay the sales tax when he or she fails to collect it. First, no sales tax is due upon the purchase of a motor vehicle that must be titled. Instead, the purchaser pays the tax directly to the Department of Revenue within one month of purchase. As long as the vehicle is taken out of state within that first month of purchased and titled elsewhere, no tax is due in Missouri. Second, if the purchaser presents an exemption certificate to the buyer at the time of sale, then the purchaser may be assessed taxes on the purchases if the certificate was issued in bad faith.

Montana[link]

Montana does not have a state sales tax but some municipalities which are big tourist destinations, such as Whitefish, Red Lodge, Big Sky, and West Yellowstone, have a small sales tax (up to 3%). Hotels, campgrounds and similar lodging charge a "lodging and usage tax", usually at the rate of 7%. Rental car companies charge a 4% tax on the base rental rate.

Nebraska[link]

Nebraska has a 5.5% state sales tax from which groceries are exempt. Municipalities have the option of imposing an additional sales tax of up to 1.5%, resulting in a maximum rate of 7.0%. Specific tax rates per counties are available on the web.^[106] Omaha also has a 2.5% tax on prepared food and drink.^[107]

Nevada[link]

Nevada's state sales tax rate is 6.85%. Counties may impose additional rates via voter approval or through approval of the Legislature; therefore, the applicable sales tax will vary by county from 6.85% to 8.1% in Clark County. Clark County, which includes Las Vegas, imposes four separate county option taxes in addition to the statewide rate - 0.25% for flood control, 0.50% for mass transit, 0.25% to fund the Southern Nevada Water Authority, and 0.25% for the addition of police officers in that county. In Washoe County (which includes Reno), the sales tax rate is 7.725%, due to county option rates for flood control, the ReTRAC train trench project, mass transit, and an additional county rate approved under the Local Government Tax Act of 1991.^[108]

For travelers to Las Vegas, note that the lodging tax rate in unincorporated Clark County, which includes the Las Vegas Strip, is 12%. Within the boundaries of the cities of Las Vegas and Henderson, the lodging tax rate is 13%.

New Hampshire[link]

Sales tax in New Hampshire is limited to a 9% tax on prepared meals, 9% on hotel and similar room rental for less than 185 days, 9% on motor vehicle rentals, and 7% on telecommunications services. A 1.5% transfer tax is levied on real estate sales. Taxable meals exclude food and beverages for consumption off premises, but catered and restaurant meals are taxable.

New Hampshire also imposes excise taxes on gasoline tax at $0.196 per gallon, cigarettes at $1.78 per pack, beer at $0.30 per gallon, and electricity at $0.00055 per megawatt-hour.^[109]

New Jersey[link]

The state of New Jersey's sales and use tax rate is 7%. However, there are exceptions to this statewide rate. In Urban Enterprise Zones, UEZ-impacted business districts, and in Salem County, sales tax may be charged at 3.5% (50% of the regular rate) on certain items. In addition, local sales taxes are imposed on sales of certain items sold in Atlantic City and Cape May County.^[110]

A full list of Urban Enterprise Zones is available on the State of New Jersey web site.^[111]

New Jersey does not charge sales tax on unprepared food (except certain sweets and pet food), household paper products, medicine, and clothing. New Jersey does not charge sales tax on goods purchased for resale or on capital improvements but does charge sales tax on certain services. See the NJ Division of Taxation website at: http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation/su.shtml

New Jersey does not charge sales tax on gasoline, but gasoline is subject to a $0.145/gallon excise tax.

Sales of clothing and accessories that are made of fur from the hide or pelt of an animal that is valued at $500 or more are subject to a 6% Fur Clothing Gross Receipts Tax.

New Mexico[link]

New Mexico imposes a gross receipts tax of 5% on most retail sales or leasing of property or performance of services in New Mexico. The tax is imposed on the seller but it is common for the seller to pass the tax on to the purchaser. The state rate is 5.125%. Municipalities may assess an additional gross receipts tax, resulting in rates between 5.375% and 8.8625%.^[112] Numerous specific exemptions and deductions apply.^[113]

New York[link]

New York has a 4% state sales tax.^[114] All counties and some cities add local taxes ranging from 3% to 4.75%. The combined sales tax in Utica, for example, is 8.75%. In New York City, total sales tax is 8.875%, which includes 0.375% charged in the Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District (MCTD).

On September 1, 2007, New York State eliminated sales tax on all clothing and shoes if the single item is priced under $110. Most counties and cities have not eliminated their local sales taxes on clothing and shoes. There are however, 5 cities (most notably New York City) and 11 counties (not counting the five counties which make up New York City: New York, Queens, Kings, Richmond, and Bronx counties) that have done so. The counties where the year-round exemption will apply include Broome, Chautauqua, Chenango, Columbia, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Hamilton, Madison (outside the city of Oneida), Rensselaer, Tioga, and Wayne. The cities where the year-round exemption will apply include Binghamton, Gloversville, New York City, Norwich, Olean, and Sherrill. New York also exempts college textbooks from sales tax.

Since June 1, 2008, when products are purchased online and shipped into New York State, some retailers must charge the tax amount appropriate to the locality where the goods are shipped, and in addition, must also charge the appropriate tax on the cost of shipping and handling. The measure states that any online retailer that generates more than $10,000 in sales via in-state sales affiliates must collect New York sales tax. The cumulative gross receipts from sales to New York customers as a result of referrals by all of the seller’s resident representatives total more than $10,000 during the preceding four quarterly sales tax periods.

From October 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011, statewide sales and use tax exemption for clothing and footwear sold for less than $110 was eliminated. For New York City, this meant articles of clothing costing less than $110 were charged 4.375% tax.^[115] A state sales tax exemption for clothing and footwear under $55 was reinstated from April 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012. The original ($110) exemption was reinstated after March 31, 2012.^[116]

North Carolina[link]

North Carolina has a state-levied sales tax of 4.75%, effective July 1, 2011, with most counties adding an additional 2% tax, for a total tax of 6.75% in 92 of the 100 counties. Mecklenburg County levies an additional 0.5% tax, which is directed towards funding the light rail system, for a total of 7.25% and the sales tax in a few other counties is 7%.^[117]

There is a 38.9¢ tax per gallon on gas, a 45¢ tax per pack of cigarettes, a 79¢ tax per gallon on wine, and a 53¢ tax per gallon on beer. Most non-prepared food purchases are taxed at a reduced rate of 2%. Candy, soft drinks, and prepared foods are taxed at the full combined 6.75%-7.25% rate, with some counties levying an additional 1% tax on prepared foods. For the benefit of back-to-school shoppers, there is a sales tax holiday on the first Friday in August through the following Sunday which includes school supplies, school instructional materials, clothing, footwear, sports and recreation equipment, and computers and computer accessories.

North Dakota[link]

North Dakota has a 5% state sales tax for general sales, but varies depending on the category (5%, 7%, 3% and 2%).^[118] These additional taxes increase the total general sales tax rates to 7.5% in Fargo and Valley City and Pembina; 7.25% in Grafton; 7.0% in Minot; 6.75% in Grand Forks; 6.5% in West Fargo; Dickinson and Williston; and 6.0% in Bismarck and Mandan.

Ohio[link]

Ohio has a 5.5% state sales tax.^[36] Counties may levy a permissive sales tax of from 0.25% up to 1.5% and transit authorities, mass transit districts usually centered on one primary county, may levy a sales tax of from 0.25% up to 1.5%. Cuyahoga County has the highest sales tax of 7.75%. Tax increments may not be less than 0.25%, and the total tax rate, including the state rate, may not exceed 8.5%. County permissive taxes may be levied by emergency resolution of the county boards of commissioners. Transit authority taxes must and county permissive taxes may be levied by a vote of the electors of the district or county.

Shipping and handling charges are also taxable. Ohio law requires virtually every type of business to obtain a Ohio Sales Tax Certificate Number. If you sell goods on eBay or the internet and ship them to someone in the state you reside, then you must collect sales tax from the buyer and pay the collected tax to your state on a monthly or quarterly basis. If you sell less than $4 million in annual sales, you do not have to collect or pay sales tax on out-of-state sales.

Ohio Sales Tax Resale Certificate Example: If you live in Ohio and you sell or ship something to someone else in Ohio, then you must collect and pay sales tax to the State of Ohio. But if you sell the same item to someone outside the State of Ohio, you need not charge sales tax, but must report the exempt tax sale to the State of Ohio. Ohio also has a gross receipts tax called the Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) that is applicable only to businesses but shares some similarities to a sales tax. "Food for human consumption off the premises where sold" is exempt from sales tax, with the exception of sodas and alcoholic beverages which are taxed the full 7%.^[119][120]

Oklahoma[link]

Oklahoma has a 4.5% sales tax rate. Cities have an additional sales tax which varies, but is generally 3-4% resulting in a total sales tax rate of 7.5% to 8.5%.

Oregon[link]

Oregon has no statewide sales tax, although local municipalities may impose sales taxes if they choose to do so, such as Ashland, which imposes a 5% prepared food tax.^[121]

Pennsylvania[link]

Pennsylvania has a 6% sales tax rate. Allegheny County has local sales tax of 1% on top of the PA sales tax rate that totals 7%. Philadelphia County has a local sales tax of 2% on top of the PA sales tax rate that totals 8%, which became effective October 8, 2009.

Food, most clothing, and footwear are among the items most frequently exempted.^[122] However, taxed food items include soft drinks and powdered mixes, sports drinks, hot beverages, hot prepared foods, sandwiches, and salad bar meals, unless these items are purchased with food stamps. Additionally, catering and delivery fees are taxed if the food itself is taxed.

Additional exemptions include internet service,^[123] newspapers, textbooks, disposable diapers, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, wet wipes, prescription drugs, many over-the-counter drugs and supplies, oral hygiene items (including toothbrushes and toothpaste), contact lenses and eyeglasses, health club and tanning booth fees, burial items (like coffins, urns, and headstones), personal protective equipment for production personnel, work uniforms, veterinary services, pet medications, fuel for residential use (including coal, firewood, fuel oil, natural gas, wood pellets, steam, and electricity), many farming supplies and equipment, ice,^[124] and tea^[125] (including powdered, hot, cold, and flavored).

The taxability of alcoholic beverages is slightly complicated. In Pennsylvania, alcohol is sold to businesses and consumers through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB). The PLCB always charges sales tax directly to the purchasing entity. Therefore, if a consumer purchases alcohol in PLCB stores, the sales tax is assessed at the point of purchase, but if a consumer purchases alcohol at a licensed business (such as a bar or restaurant), the sales tax is not applied because it had already been paid when the business purchased the alcohol from the PLCB. The PLCB charges an additional 18% levy on liquor and wine, but this tax is always included in the price regardless of the purchasing location. Beer is subject to an excise of $0.08 per gallon.

Puerto Rico[link]

Puerto Rico has a 5.5% commonwealth sales tax that applies to both products and services with few exemptions (including items such as unprocessed foods, prescription medicines and business-to-business services). Additionally, most municipalities have a city sales tax of 1.5% for a total of 7%. Some items that are exempt from commonwealth sales tax, specifically unprocessed foods, may still be subject to the city sales tax in the municipalities.^[126]

Rhode Island[link]

Rhode Island has a state sales tax of 7%. The rate was raised from 5% to 6% as a temporary measure in the 1970s, but has not since been lowered. Rhode Island raised its sales tax from 6% to 7% in the early 1990s to pay for the bailout of the state's failed credit unions. The change was initially proposed as a temporary measure, but was later made permanent. Other taxes may also apply, such as the state's 1% restaurant tax. Many items are exempt from the state sales tax, e.g., food (excluding single serve items), prescription drugs, clothing and footwear, newspapers, coffins, and original artwork.^[127]

South Carolina[link]

South Carolina has a 6% state sales tax but when combined with local, county and hospitality taxes South Carolina has a maximum sales tax of 10.5%.

In Charleston, the tax rate equals 10.5% with state tax, county tax, local option tax, and the hospitality tax. The City of Myrtle Beach states that mixed liquor drinks can have taxes added as high as 16.5%.^[128]

As of June 1, 2007 counties and some cities may impose an additional 1% to 3% sales tax. As of mid-2005, 35 of 46 counties do so. Restaurants may also charge an extra 1-2% tax on prepared food (fast food or take-out) in some places. The state's sales tax on unprepared food disappeared completely November 1, 2007. There is a cap of $300 on sales tax for most vehicles.

Additionally, signs posted in many places of business inform that South Carolina residents over the age of 85 are entitled to a 1% reduction in sales tax.

For the benefit of back-to-school shoppers, there is a sales tax holiday on the first Friday in August through the following Sunday which includes school supplies, school instructional materials, clothing, footwear, sports and recreation equipment, and computers and computer accessories.

South Dakota[link]

South Dakota has a 4% state sales tax, plus any additional local taxes. An additional 1.5% sales tax is added during the summer season on sales occurring in tourism-related businesses and dedicated to the state's office of tourism.

City governments are allowed a maximum of 2% sales tax for use by the local government. Tribal governments are allowed to charge a higher local government tax rate, as they have a special agreement with the State of South Dakota.

While city governments are not restricted to a 2% tax, they can impose a gross receipts tax on things like lodging, alcohol, restaurants, and admissions. These gross receipts are passed on by the business as a tax and could be considered a sales tax.

Tennessee[link]

Tennessee charges 5.5% sales tax on groceries as of January 1, 2008, and 7% on other items. Counties also tax up to 2.75% in increments of 0.25% — most do so around 2.25% = the majority of TN taxpayers pay 9.25%. If a county does not charge the maximum, its cities can charge and keep all or part of the remainder. Several cities are in more than one county, but none charge a city tax, thus paying only the county taxes.^[129][130]

Texas[link]

The Texas state sales and use tax rate is 6.25%, but local taxing jurisdictions (cities, counties, special purpose districts, and transit authorities, but specifically not including school districts) may also impose sales and use taxes up to 2% for a total of 8.25%.^[131] The main items exempt from sales tax include medicines (prescription and over-the-counter), food and food seeds (but prepared food, such as from a restaurant, is subject to sales tax).^[131][132]

Motor vehicle and boat sales are taxed at only the 6.25% state rate; there is no local sales and use tax on these items. In addition, a motor vehicle or boat purchased outside the state is assessed a use tax at the same rate as one purchased inside the state. The sales tax is calculated on the greater of either the actual purchase price or the "standard presumptive value" of the vehicle, as determined by the state, except for certain purchases (mainly purchases from licensed dealers or from auctions).^[133]

Lodging rates are subject to a 6% rate at the state level, with local entities being allowed to charge additional amounts. Lodging for travelers on official government business is specifically exempt from tax but the traveler must submit an exemption form to the hotel/motel and provide proof of official status.^[134]

If merchants file and pay their sales and use tax on time, they may subtract 1/2 percent of the tax collected as a discount, to encourage prompt payment and to compensate the merchant for collecting the tax from consumers for the state.^[135]

Texas provides one sales tax holiday per year (generally in August prior to the start of the school year, running from Friday to Sunday of the designated weekend). Clothing less than $100 (except for certain items, such as golf shoes) and school supplies are exempt from all sales tax (state and local) on this one weekend only. There has also been talks of a tax free weekend in December to help with the Holiday shopping season.

Utah[link]

Utah has a 4.70% state sales tax. Additionally, local taxing authorities can impose their own sales tax. Currently the majority of Utah's aggregate sales taxes are in the range of 5.95% - 8.35%. Utah has a 16.350% sales tax on rental cars in Salt Lake City.^[136] The sales tax on food and food ingredients is 3.0% statewide. This includes the state rate of 1.75%, local option rate of 1.0% and county option rate of .25%.

Vermont[link]

Vermont has a 6% sales tax.^[137] The state also has a 9% guest rooms tax, and a meals tax of 9% for prepard food and 10% for alcoholic beverages. Municipalities may charge an additional 1% as a local option. Effectively, cities and towns that exercise the local option have a 7% sales tax, a 10% rooms tax, and a 10% meals tax (11% for alcoholic beverages). The following communities charge all local option taxes: Dover, Killington, Manchester, Middlebury, Rutland Town, South Burlington, Stratton, Williston, and Winhall. Brattleboro and Stowe do not charge the local option sales tax, but do charge the local option rooms and meals taxes. Burlington charges the local option sales tax, but is permitted by its city charter to levy its own taxes on meals, lodging, and entertainment. The city of Rutland does not charge the local option sales tax; it is also authorized by its charter to levy its own taxes on meals, lodging, and entertainment.^[138]

Vermont also charges a 6% purchase or use tax on the net purchase price of a motor vehicle. Short term car rentals are taxed at 9% of the rental charge.^[139] Gasoline is taxed at 20 cents per gallon, plus an amount equal to 2% of the average state-wide retail price. A Motor Fuel Transportation Infrastructure Assessment (MFTIA) fee is also added to the gas tax rate. The average state-wide retail price and MFTIA amounts are set by the state each quarter.^[140]

Virginia[link]

Virginia has a sales tax rate of 5.00% (4% state tax and 1% local tax). Consumers are taxed on every 'eligible food item.' For example, fresh local produce sold at farmers markets and grocery stores, or basic, unprepared cold grocery foods, are taxed 2.5% (1.5% state tax and 1% local tax).^[141] Cities and counties may also charge an additional "Food and Beverage Tax" on restaurant meals, up to an additional 4% in counties and 6.5% in cities.^[142] Virginia also has a tax on alcohol of 11.5%.

Virginia's use tax also applies at the same rate for out of state purchases (food 2.5%, non-food 5%) exceeding $100 per year "from mail order catalogs".^[143] Various exemptions include prescription and non-prescription medicine,^[144] gasoline^{[citation needed]}, and postage stamps, or the labor portion of vehicle repair^{[citation needed]}. "Cost price" does not include separately stated "shipping" charges but it does include a separate "handling" charge or "shipping and handling" charges if listed as a combined item on the sales invoice.^[145]

However, unlike Maryland and West Virginia consumer use tax forms, the Virginia CU-7 Consumer Use Tax Form does not recognize that it is possible to be under-taxed in another state and so only addresses untaxed items. Unlike Maryland's quarterly filing, Virginia's CU-7 is due annually between January 1 and May 1 or can be filed optionally instead with Schedule A with Form 760, or Schedule NPY with Form 760PY. As with all states, Virginia has penalties and interest for non-filing, but Virginia's use tax is no more practically enforceable than that of any other state.

Washington[link]

Washington has a 6.5% statewide sales tax.^[146] Local rates vary based on an individual's location at the point of purchase.^[146] In addition, due to the large number of Native American sovereign nations located within the state, sales-tax rates, if any, can vary based on state treaties with each nation.^[147][148]

As of December 2, 2010, sales taxes cannot be applied to unprepared food items and prescription medications. Prepared food, over-the-counter medications, and medical marijuana are not exempt from sales tax.

The sale or lease of motor vehicles for use on the road incurs an additional 0.3% tax, rental of a car for less than 30 days has an additional state/local tax of 8.9%.^[149] When renting a car for less than 30 days in Seattle, the total sales tax is 18.6%. When purchasing an automobile, if one trades in a car, the state subtracts the price of the trade when calculating the sales tax to be paid on the automobile (e.g., purchasing a $40,000 car, and trading a $10,000 car, a person would be taxed on the difference of $30,000 only, not the full amount of the new vehicle).

When staying at a hotel (60+ rooms capacity) in Seattle, the sales tax is 15.6%. Residents of Canada and U.S. states or possessions (only U.S. and Canadian locations having a sales tax of less than 3%, e.g., Oregon, Alaska, and Alberta) are exempt from sales tax on purchases of tangible personal property for use outside the state. Stores at the border will inquire about residency, and exempt qualified purchasers from the tax.^[150]

A seller of a house or real estate pays excise taxes on the full sale price. The amount varies by county. In King and Snohomish counties, it is up to 1.78%. For example, selling a house for $500,000 will incur a tax of $8,900.

Residents of Washington, who purchase goods for use in Washington, must pay a use tax in lieu of a sales tax, if any one of four conditions is true: If a Washington resident purchases goods and certain services in other states that do not charge a sales tax or charge a sales tax rate less than the sales-tax rate in Washington, or if an out-of-state seller does not collect Washington sales tax, the resident must pay a use tax on all goods that will be used in Washington. Use tax must also be paid if a Washington resident purchases goods from a seller who is not authorized to collect sales tax or if personal property is acquired with the purchase of real property.^[151] Washington state does not typically pursue use tax collection for most purchases. However, in 2005, the Washington State Department of Revenue began to make a concerted effort to collect use tax on artworks acquired in other states.^[152]

The lowest combined state, county, and municipality sales tax rate in Washington is 7% in most of Klickitat and Skamania counties, while the highest combined sales tax in Washington is the 10% tax on prepared food and beverages in King County.

The highest sales tax in Washington is on liquor and is 20.5%. (This does not include the additional WA Liquor Tax.)

April 1, 2008 saw tax increases in King County (+.001), Kittitas County (+.003), Mason County (+.001), and the city of Union Gap (+.002).^[153]

On July 1, 2008, Washington stopped charging an origin-based sales tax, and started charging a destination-based sales tax. This change only applies to transactions beginning and ending within state lines and does not apply to other states.^[149] Additionally, Washington started collecting taxes from online retailers that have voluntarily agreed to start collecting the sales tax in return for not being sued for back taxes.^[154]

The city of Seattle charges a 10% tax on charges for parking garages to go toward mass transit. Total tax at parking garages is now 19.5%. This rate was set to go up to 12.5% on 1 January 2011, making the parking tax total 22%.

On November 4, 2008, voters in King County (Seattle) approved a 0.5% increase in the sales tax. Taxes within the city were increased to 9.5% on retail purchases. This increase was supposed to be effective January 1, 2009, but was pushed back until April 2009. (For the first quarter of 2009, the tax rate in Seattle was 9%.)

Midterm elections that occurred on November 2, 2010, saw sweeping voter-enacted tax changes with the passage of Initiative 1107. The initiative repealed all taxes levied on candy, gum, snack foods, carbonated beverages, and bottled water that had been imposed by the state legislature on June 1, 2010. Initiative 1107 also lowered the B&O tax on food products that contain meat. The Department of Revenue stated that all tax rollbacks were to take effect on December 2, 2010, directing retailers to stop collecting the sales tax at that time. The language of the initiative did not order the state to refund any tax that had been previously collected.^[155]

West Virginia[link]

West Virginia has the distinction of being the first US state to enact a sales tax.^[156] It currently stands at 6%. The sales tax on food currently stands at 2%. Effective January 1, 2006, the sales tax on food was lowered to 5%, and on July 1, 2007, it was lowered further to 4%. The sales tax on food was again lowered to 3% on July 1, 2008.^[157] However, the reduced rate of tax does not apply to sales, purchases and uses by consumers of prepared food. Prescription drugs are not subject to sales tax. Credit is allowed for sales or use taxes paid to another state with respect to the purchase.

An individual who titles a motor vehicle with the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles must pay a $10.00 title fee and a 5 percent title privilege tax (rather than the 6 percent sales tax). For vehicles purchased new by West Virginia residents, the measure of this tax is the net sales price of the vehicle. For used vehicles, and for vehicles previously titled in other states, the tax is measured by the National Automobile Dealers Association book value of the vehicle at the time of registration. No credit is issued for any taxes paid to another state. Trailers, motorboats, all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles are also subject to this tax.^[158] As of June 7, 2007, new residents of West Virginia no longer have to pay the 5 percent title privilege tax on vehicles, as long as the vehicles were validly titled to the same owner outside the state.^[159]

West Virginia is a member of the Streamlined Sales Tax Project. The streamlined sales tax agreement has effected significant in-state tax changes. West Virginia's Energy Star Sales Tax Free Holiday was inspired by similar holidays in other states. The reduction of the food tax was similarly influenced. West Virginia adopted the definition of food found in the Streamlined Sales Tax Agreement in deciding what food is subject to preferential tax rates.^[160]

Wisconsin[link]

Wisconsin has a 5% state sales tax, with 62 of the 72 counties charging an extra 0.5% "County Tax".

The state instituted a 0.1% sales tax in five counties (Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Washington, Waukesha), effective January 1, 1996, to cover the cost of building Miller Park in Milwaukee. The tax was originally scheduled to be retired in 2014, however it is now not expected to collect enough taxes to cover the entire cost until 2017.^[161] There had been talk of extending the tax to pay for a new stadium for the Milwaukee Bucks, but the plan failed to gain any momentum.^[162]

Brown County collects a 0.5% tax for all purchases which funded the remaining cost of a $295 million renovation of Lambeau Field, as well as a payment to the Green Bay Packers to cover part of the cost of operating and maintaining the stadium through the year 2031. The necessary funds are expected to all be collected by about 2015, when the tax is currently scheduled to end.^[163]

The municipalities of Lake Delton, Wisconsin Dells, Bayfield, and Eagle River have also been authorized to adopt an additional 1% sales tax, due to their status as popular tourist destinations.^[164]

Milwaukee County also has an additional local exposition tax on hotel rooms, car rentals, and food and beverage, which funds the Wisconsin Center Tax District.^[165]

In all cases, prescriptions, most foods (with the exception of candy, dietary supplements, soft drinks, and prepared foods), and newspapers, among other items, are exempt from sales tax, however over-the-counter medications, and certain types of repair and installation services are not tax exempt.^[166]

Wyoming[link]

Wyoming has a 4% state sales tax, with counties adding up to an additional 3%, resulting in a maximum rate of 7%. In addition, resort district areas have the option to impose an additional 3% tax. Exemptions include food which is not designed to be consumed on-premises and sales of agricultural equipment.^[167] Unlike most states, in Wyoming labor falls under the jurisdiction of sales tax. All labor on both tangible and intangible property are taxable, however labor which permanently modifies real property is exempt.^[168]

International sales[link]

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Value added tax[link]

There is no value added tax in the United States. There have been proposals to replace some Federal taxes with a value added tax.

Fiscal impact[link]

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Policy issues[link]

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History[link]

"The use of sales taxes by U.S. states dates back at least to the Pennsylvania mercantile license tax that was initially introduced in 1821, though this and other early taxes were not broad-based. Buehler^[169] attributes development of modern state sales taxes to the depression era. He credits Kentucky with the first tax levied exclusively on retailers. The initial tax, passed in 1930, was progressive, but was replaced in 1934 with a 3 percent flat rate tax and then was eliminated in 1936. The current Kentucky sales tax was adopted in 1960. Commerce ClearingHouse credits Mississippi with the first sales tax, in 1930. Forty-five states and the District of Columbia currently impose sales taxes (see Table 1). Twenty-four of the states first levied the tax during the 1930s, six in the 1940s, five in the 1950s, and eleven in the 1960s. In 1969, Vermont was the last state to impose a sales tax. Alaska, Delaware, New Hampshire, Montana and Oregon do not levy general sales taxes." ^[170]

See also[link]

• Gross receipts tax
• Sales tax
• Use tax
• U.S. State Non-resident Withholding Tax
• Sales taxes in Canada

State taxation:

• State income tax
• State tax levels

General:

• Taxation in the United States
• Federal spending and taxation across states

References[link]