Sales Tax Calculator

How to Use the Sales Tax Calculator

Enter the pre-tax price and your sales tax rate (or select your state). The calculator shows the tax amount and final price. Check "Price includes tax" if you want to find the pre-tax price from a tax-inclusive amount.

Sales Tax Formulas

Calculate tax from pre-tax price:
Sales Tax = Price × (Tax Rate ÷ 100)
Final Price = Price + Sales Tax

Calculate pre-tax price from tax-inclusive price:
Pre-Tax Price = Final Price ÷ (1 + Tax Rate ÷ 100)

State Sales Tax Rates (2024)

Combined State + Local Rates

Many localities add their own sales taxes. Combined rates can be significantly higher:

• Louisiana: up to 11.45% (state + local)
• Tennessee: up to 9.55%
• Arkansas: up to 11.625%
• Alabama: up to 13.5%

Common Tax-Exempt Items

• Groceries: Exempt in 32 states
• Prescription drugs: Exempt in all states
• Clothing: Exempt or partially exempt in some states
• Medical devices: Often exempt
• Newspapers/magazines: Exempt in many states

Sales Tax Tips

• Always add sales tax when budgeting for purchases
• Tax-free shopping holidays can save 5-10% on large purchases
• Online purchases may require use tax if seller doesn't collect sales tax
• Keep receipts for business purchases - sales tax may be deductible
• Interstate sales (out-of-state online shopping) now usually require tax payment