You enter the price before tax and the combined sales tax rate as a percentage. The tool multiplies price by rate to get the tax amount, then adds it to the original price for the total. The reverse section divides a tax-inclusive total by (1 + rate) to extract the pre-tax price. It assumes a single flat rate applied to the full purchase amount.
Enter the combined state plus local rate that applies where your purchase is made. You can find this on your state's department of revenue website or on a recent receipt. Some cities add their own surcharge on top of the state rate.
No. Most states exempt or reduce rates on groceries, prescription drugs, and clothing. Some localities add extra taxes on prepared food, alcohol, or lodging. Check your state's tax authority for item-specific rules.
Sales tax is collected once at the point of final sale and is typically shown separately on the receipt. VAT (value-added tax) is collected at every stage of production and is usually included in the listed price. The U.S. uses sales tax; most other countries use VAT.
Yes. Since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling in South Dakota v. Wayfair, most online retailers collect sales tax based on the buyer's shipping address. Enter the combined rate for your location.
Estimate only. Results reflect your inputs and standard formulas — they are not financial, tax, legal, health, or investment advice. Verify important decisions with a qualified professional.