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Free Sales Tax Calculator

Add sales tax to a price using a rate you enter, and see the tax amount and the final total. Works for VAT and GST too.

Result
Tax
4.00
Total
54.00

Enter your local combined rate. Estimate only — actual tax can vary by item and rounding rules.

Estimate only. This calculator provides estimates based on the values you enter and the formula shown. It is not financial advice and may not reflect every fee, tax, or lender requirement. Check figures with a qualified professional before making financial decisions.

Quick answer

To add sales tax, multiply the price by the tax rate divided by 100 to get the tax, then add it to the price. For example, 8% tax on a $50 item is $4, for a $54 total. Tax rates vary by location, so enter your local rate.

Formula & method

tax = price × (rate% ÷ 100);  total = price + tax
  • price — the pre-tax price
  • rate% — your local tax rate, e.g. 8.25

To find the pre-tax price from a tax-included total, divide the total by (1 + rate/100).

Examples

Example 1: 8% on $50
Input
price = 50, rate = 8%
Result
Tax $4.00, total $54.00
Why
50 × 0.08 = 4; 50 + 4 = 54.
Example 2: 8.25% on $129.99
Input
price = 129.99, rate = 8.25%
Result
Tax $10.72, total $140.71
Why
129.99 × 0.0825 = 10.724 ≈ 10.72.
Example 3: 20% VAT on $200
Input
price = 200, rate = 20%
Result
Tax $40.00, total $240.00
Why
200 × 0.20 = 40; 200 + 40 = 240.

When to use this tool

  • Estimating the checkout total before buying.
  • Adding VAT or GST to an invoice or quote.
  • Working out the tax portion of a receipt.

Common mistakes

  • Using a national average rate instead of your exact local rate — rates vary by state, county, and city.
  • Applying tax before a discount; usually the discount comes first, then tax on the reduced price.
  • Forgetting some items are tax-exempt or taxed at a different rate in your area.

Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate sales tax?

Multiply the price by your tax rate divided by 100. For 8% on $50, that’s 50 × 0.08 = $4 tax, for a $54 total.

What sales tax rate should I use?

Use the combined rate for your exact location, since state, county, and city taxes can stack. This tool doesn’t assume a rate — you enter your own.

How do I remove tax from a total?

Divide the tax-included total by (1 + rate/100). For example, $54 including 8% tax is 54 ÷ 1.08 = $50 before tax.

Does this work for VAT or GST?

Yes. The math is the same — just enter your VAT or GST rate as the percentage.

Is this exact for my purchase?

It’s an estimate based on the rate you enter. Actual tax can differ due to exemptions, rounding rules, or special category rates, so treat it as a guide.

Why does sales tax vary so much by location?

States and counties set their own rates. For example, Oregon has no sales tax, while California combines state (7.25%) and local rates (up to ~10.75%). Always check your exact location.

Are some items tax-exempt in my area?

Yes. Groceries, prescription medications, and medical devices are often tax-exempt in many states, but rules vary. Check your state's revenue department or ask at checkout.

Sources & references

External references open in a new tab. We are independent and not affiliated with these organizations.

Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates based on the values you enter and the formula shown. It is not financial advice and may not reflect every fee, tax, or lender requirement. Check figures with a qualified professional before making financial decisions.

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  • ✓ No sign-up required
  • ✓ Runs entirely in your browser — nothing is uploaded.
  • ✓ Formula and method shown above
Last updated: How we calculateReport a correctionDisclaimer

Provided “as is” for general information only — results may be inaccurate, so verify before you rely on them. No warranty; use at your own risk.

Built and reviewed by HIFreeTools against the formula shown above and any authoritative references cited on this page. See our methodology and editorial standards.

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