California Gun Tax Calculator

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Reviewed by David Chen, CFA Financial Compliance Specialist | Updated for July 2024 Legislation

Effective July 1, 2024, California implemented a new 11% excise tax on all retail sales of firearms and ammunition. Use our California Gun Tax Calculator to estimate your total cost, including the state excise tax and local sales taxes.

California Gun Tax Calculator

Fixed at 11% per SB 473
Estimated Total Price
$0.00
Total Tax: $0.00

California Gun Tax Calculator Formula

Total Cost = Price + (Price × Sales Tax Rate) + (Price × 0.11)

Formula Source: CDTFA Official Website

Variables:

  • Purchase Price: The retail price of the firearm or ammunition before taxes.
  • Local Sales Tax: The variable sales tax rate based on your specific city and county in California.
  • CA Excise Tax: The mandatory 11% state tax established by Assembly Bill 28 (SB 473).

What is the California Gun Tax Calculator?

The California Gun Tax Calculator is a specialized tool designed to help firearm buyers navigate the complex tax landscape of the Golden State. Since the passing of AB 28, California is the first state in the nation to impose an additional excise tax on the retail sale of guns and ammo.

This tool aggregates the base retail price, the local sales tax, and the unique 11% excise tax to provide a transparent look at the final out-of-pocket cost. It is essential for budgeting, especially given that tax rates in some California districts can exceed 20% total when combined.

How to Calculate California Gun Tax (Example)

  1. Start with the base retail price (e.g., $1,000 for a handgun).
  2. Calculate local sales tax (e.g., 9.5% in Los Angeles = $95).
  3. Calculate the 11% state excise tax ($1,000 × 0.11 = $110).
  4. Add the base price + sales tax + excise tax ($1,000 + $95 + $110 = $1,205).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the 11% tax applied to ammunition? Yes, the 11% excise tax applies to both firearms and ammunition sales in California.

Does this replace the sales tax? No, the excise tax is additive. You must pay both your local sales tax and the 11% excise tax.

Who pays the tax, the dealer or the buyer? While the law taxes the retailer’s gross receipts, retailers almost universally pass this cost directly to the consumer at the point of sale.

Are there any exemptions? Sales to peace officers and law enforcement agencies are generally exempt from the 11% state excise tax.

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