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Sales Tax Calculator

Calculate U.S. sales tax, final checkout price or the pre-tax price from a tax-inclusive total.

Enter your values and press Calculate.

Planning estimate only. Replace sample values with figures that match your situation.

How this calculator works

Calculate U.S. sales tax, final checkout price or the pre-tax price from a tax-inclusive total. It uses the values you enter and shows the main components separately so you can review the estimate rather than relying on one unexplained number.

Formula

Sales tax = pre-tax price × tax rate; total = pre-tax price + sales tax.
Example

A $100 purchase at an 8.25% rate adds $8.25 of tax for a total of $108.25.

How to improve the estimate

  • Use the combined state, county and city rate for the purchase location.
  • Some products and services may be exempt or taxed differently.
  • Online purchases may use the delivery address rate.

Understanding the result

The result is for comparison and planning. Actual bills, lender calculations, taxes, fees, employment rules or contract terms may differ. Verify important decisions with the relevant provider, lender, employer, tax authority or other authoritative source.

Frequently asked questions

Is there one U.S. sales tax rate?

No. Rates and taxable items vary by state and locality.

Does this calculate tax backwards?

The result also shows the entered pre-tax price and final total; use the displayed formula to verify the calculation.

Is sales tax the same as VAT?

No. U.S. sales tax is generally charged at retail and differs from a value-added tax system.

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Added in CostMeter V1.5 • September 2026