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California Sales Tax Calculator

Calculate sales tax for purchases in California (CA).

State Tax Rate

7.3%

Avg. Local Rate

1.7%

Combined Rate

9.0%

US Sales Tax Calculator

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Sales Tax in California

California levies a state sales tax rate of 7.3% on most retail purchases of tangible personal property and select services. Local jurisdictions may add their own taxes, bringing the average combined rate to 9.0%. Actual local rates vary by city and county, so the total tax on a given purchase depends on where the transaction takes place.

Common exemptions in many states include groceries, prescription drugs, and certain medical equipment, though specific exemptions vary. Businesses selling taxable goods or services in California must register for a sales tax permit and collect tax at the point of sale. Online sellers with sufficient economic nexus in California are also required to collect and remit sales tax.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sales tax rate in California?
The state sales tax rate in California is 7.3%. When combined with the average local rate of 1.7%, the typical combined sales tax rate is 9.0%.
Does California have local sales taxes?
Yes, localities in California can impose additional sales taxes. The average local rate is 1.7%, but the actual rate depends on the specific city or county where the purchase is made. Combined with the state rate of 7.3%, the average total is 9.0%.
What items are exempt from sales tax in California?
Sales tax exemptions in California vary but commonly include prescription medications and certain medical devices. Many states also exempt or reduce the rate on groceries, clothing, and other essential items. Check with the California Department of Revenue for a complete list of exempt items.
How do I file sales tax in California?
Businesses registered to collect sales tax in California must file returns with the state's Department of Revenue on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis depending on the volume of sales. Returns typically include the total taxable sales, the tax collected, and any allowable deductions or credits.

Sales Tax in Other States

Alabama9.5%Alaska1.8%Arizona8.5%Arkansas9.5%Colorado7.9%Connecticut6.3%Delaware0.0%District of Columbia6.0%Florida7.0%Georgia7.5%Hawaii4.5%Idaho6.0%Illinois9.0%Indiana7.0%Iowa6.9%Kansas8.7%Kentucky6.0%Louisiana10.1%Maine5.5%Maryland6.0%Massachusetts6.3%Michigan6.0%Minnesota8.1%Mississippi7.1%Missouri8.4%Montana0.0%Nebraska7.0%Nevada8.2%New Hampshire0.0%New Jersey6.6%New Mexico7.7%New York8.5%North Carolina7.0%North Dakota7.1%Ohio7.3%Oklahoma9.1%Oregon0.0%Pennsylvania6.3%Rhode Island7.0%South Carolina7.5%South Dakota6.1%Tennessee9.6%Texas8.2%Utah7.4%Vermont6.4%Virginia5.8%Washington9.5%West Virginia6.6%Wisconsin5.7%Wyoming5.6%