Use our free sales tax calculator to instantly find out how much tax you’ll pay on any purchase — and what your total cost will be. Whether you’re shopping in a state with 6% tax or 10%, this tool gives you the answer in seconds.
Sales Tax Calculator
Tax Amount:
Total Price:
How to Calculate Sales Tax
The sales tax formula is simple: Tax Amount = Price × (Tax Rate ÷ 100). Then add it to the original price to get your total.
Examples
- $50 item at 8%: $50 × 0.08 = $4.00 tax → Total: $54.00
- $120 item at 6.25%: $120 × 0.0625 = $7.50 tax → Total: $127.50
- $299 electronics at 9.5%: $299 × 0.095 = $28.41 tax → Total: $327.41
Sales Tax Rates by State (2025)
Sales tax rates vary by state and sometimes by city or county. Some common state rates: California (7.25% base), Texas (6.25%), New York (4% state + local), Florida (6%), Washington (6.5%), Tennessee (7%), Nevada (6.85%), Oregon (0% — no sales tax).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate sales tax on a purchase?
Multiply the item price by the tax rate (as a decimal). For example, a $100 item with 8% tax: $100 × 0.08 = $8 tax. Your total is $108.
Is sales tax calculated before or after discounts?
Sales tax is typically calculated on the final price after discounts are applied. So if an item is $100 with a $20 coupon, you pay tax on $80.
Which states have no sales tax?
Five states have no statewide sales tax: Oregon, Montana, New Hampshire, Delaware, and Alaska. However, local municipalities in Alaska may still charge sales tax.
Can I figure out the pre-tax price from a total?
Yes. Divide the total price by (1 + tax rate). For example, if you paid $108 and the tax rate is 8%: $108 ÷ 1.08 = $100 pre-tax price.
Does sales tax apply to groceries?
It depends on the state. Many states exempt groceries from sales tax entirely, while others tax them at a reduced rate. States like California, New York, and Illinois generally exempt unprepared food from sales tax.