Ohio's sales tax system is composed of a statewide rate plus additional local taxes set by each county. This means the total sales tax you pay can vary depending on where you are in the state. Our Ohio Sales Tax Calculator simplifies this for you, allowing you to quickly determine the total tax on a purchase. By providing the pre-tax amount and the local county tax rate, you can easily find the total sales tax and the final price you will pay for an item or service.
How to Use the Ohio Sales Tax Calculator
Calculating the sales tax on your Ohio purchase is a simple process:
- Enter the Pre-tax Amount: Input the price of the item or service before any taxes are applied.
- Enter the County Tax Rate: Input the additional sales tax rate for the specific county where the purchase is being made. You can find this on your receipt or your county's government website.
- Calculate Your Total: Click the "Calculate" button to see the total sales tax amount and the final, out-the-door price of your purchase.
Understanding Ohio's Sales Tax System
Like many states, Ohio's total sales tax is a combination of a state-level tax and local additions.
The Statewide Rate
The base sales tax rate for the entire state of Ohio is 5.75%. This rate applies to the retail sale and rental of tangible personal property, as well as some specific services. This 5.75% rate is the foundation of the sales tax you'll pay on any taxable transaction in the state.
County and Local Surtaxes
In addition to the state tax, each of Ohio's 88 counties is permitted to levy its own local sales and use tax. These are often referred to as "permissive" taxes because they are adopted at the local level. These county taxes are used to fund local services like transportation, public safety, and infrastructure projects.
The county tax rates typically range from 0.75% to 2.25%. The total sales tax rate for a location is the 5.75% state rate plus the specific county's rate. For example, in Franklin County (Columbus), the county rate is 1.25%, making the total combined sales tax rate 7.00% (5.75% + 1.25%).
What Is Subject to Sales Tax in Ohio?
In Ohio, sales tax is generally applied to the retail sale of tangible personal property. The state also taxes a number of specific services.
Common Taxable Items:
- Most physical goods, such as clothing, furniture, electronics, and vehicles.
- Restaurant meals and most beverages.
- Services such as landscaping, private investigation, and building maintenance.
- Lodging in a hotel or motel.
Common Non-Taxable Items:
- Most Food for Home Consumption: Food items intended to be eaten at home, such as groceries, are generally not taxed. However, this exemption does not apply to soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, or food sold for on-premises consumption.
- Prescription Drugs: Medications prescribed by a licensed physician are exempt from sales tax.
- Most Services: While some services are specifically listed as taxable, the majority are not. This includes professional services (medical, legal), personal services (haircuts), and most repair labor.
- Newspapers and Magazines: Sales of newspapers and magazines are generally exempt.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Sales Tax
How can I find my county's specific sales tax rate?
The Ohio Department of Taxation maintains an official, up-to-date list and map of the sales tax rates for all 88 counties. You can find this information on their website to ensure you are using the correct rate for your calculations.
Do I have to pay Ohio sales tax on a car?
Yes. The sales tax on a motor vehicle is based on the rate in the county where you reside, not where you purchase the vehicle. The tax is paid to the Clerk of Courts when you apply for the vehicle's title.
Is sales tax charged on shipping and handling?
In Ohio, delivery and shipping charges are considered part of the sales price and are subject to sales tax if the item being delivered is taxable. This is true even if the delivery charges are stated separately on the invoice.