A sales tax calculator adds sales tax to any purchase in seconds. Enter the price, pick a state base rate (Texas 6.25%, Florida 6%, California 7.25%, New York 4%) or type a custom rate, and instantly see the tax amount and the total you will pay at checkout.
Purchase details
Breakdown
State base rates used here
| State | Base rate | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 6.25% | Local add-ons vary by city/county |
| Florida | 6% | County discretionary surtax may apply |
| California | 7.25% | District taxes can raise the combined rate |
| New York | 4% | County/city add-ons vary; NYC higher |
Rates shown are the published state base rates; cities and counties may add local taxes, so the combined rate where you buy can be higher. Verify your combined local rate before checkout.
How do you calculate sales tax?
Multiply the purchase price by the tax rate as a decimal. A $100 item at 6.25% costs $100 x 0.0625 = $6.25 in tax, for a $106.25 total. Pick a state rate above to run it instantly.
The rate to use is the combined rate where you buy: state base plus any city/county add-ons. This calculator uses state base rates only.
Why do sales tax rates differ by state?
Each state sets its own base rate, from 0% in five states to over 7% in others, and most allow cities and counties to add local taxes. That is why the same item can cost different totals in different ZIP codes.
The four quick-pick rates here (TX 6.25%, FL 6%, CA 7.25%, NY 4%) are state base rates; local add-ons are not included.
What is exempt from sales tax?
It varies by state, but common exemptions include unprepared groceries, prescription medicine and some medical devices. Texas, Florida, California and New York each have their own exemption lists.
Services are taxed differently too: many states tax only specific listed services. Check your state revenue site for details.
Frequently asked questions
Which state rates are built in?
Texas 6.25%, Florida 6%, California 7.25% and New York 4% - the state base rates. You can also type any custom rate, including your full combined local rate.
Why might my receipt show a higher rate?
Because cities, counties and special districts add local taxes on top of the state base rate. This calculator uses base rates only, as labeled.
Can I enter my exact combined local rate?
Yes. Type it into the tax rate field (for example 8.25) and the buttons deactivate. The math works the same for any rate.
Does it handle tax-exempt items?
Enter the taxable subtotal only. If some items are exempt (like groceries in many states), subtract them before entering the amount.
Is my purchase data uploaded anywhere?
No. All calculations run in your browser with JavaScript. Nothing is sent to any server.