Maryland State Sales Tax Calculator
State Only (6%)
Allegany, Carroll, Garrett, Howard, Kent, Queen Anne's, Washington, Wicomico, Worcester Counties (7%)
Anne Arundel, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Calvert, Caroline, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Harford, Montgomery, Prince George's, St. Mary's, Somerset, Talbot, Virginia, non-MD counties (8%)
Allegany, Carroll, Garrett, Howard, Kent, Queen Anne's, Washington, Wicomico, Worcester Counties with Special Tax (9%)
Anne Arundel, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Calvert, Caroline, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Harford, Montgomery, Prince George's, St. Mary's, Somerset, Talbot, Virginia, non-MD counties with Special Tax (10%)
Maryland Sales Tax Breakdown
Sales Tax Amount: $0.00
Total Amount Due: $0.00
Understanding Maryland State Sales Tax
Maryland has a unique approach to sales tax. Unlike many states that impose a single statewide rate, Maryland's sales and use tax rate varies significantly based on the specific county or special taxing district where a taxable transaction occurs. The standard statewide rate is 6%, but certain counties and special districts add an additional percentage, leading to higher combined rates.
This calculator helps you accurately determine the sales tax you'll owe on purchases made within Maryland, considering the applicable county or special district tax rate. It also calculates the total amount you will pay, including the tax.
How Maryland Sales Tax is Calculated:
The calculation is straightforward:
- Sales Tax Amount = Purchase Amount × Applicable Tax Rate
- Total Amount Due = Purchase Amount + Sales Tax Amount
The "Applicable Tax Rate" is determined by the location of the sale. Our calculator includes common rates, but it's essential to verify the rate for the specific jurisdiction if you're unsure.
Key Maryland Sales Tax Information:
- Standard Rate: The base state sales tax rate is 6%.
- County/Special District Rates: Several counties and special taxing districts impose additional taxes, bringing the total rate higher in those areas. The options in the dropdown reflect these combined rates.
- Taxable Goods and Services: Generally, tangible personal property is taxable. Some services are also taxed. Food for home consumption is typically exempt, but prepared foods and most services are subject to tax.
- Use Tax: If you purchase taxable items outside of Maryland for use within Maryland and do not pay sales tax at the time of purchase, you are generally required to pay Maryland use tax at the same rate as the sales tax rate would have been.
- Exemptions: Certain items and transactions are exempt from sales tax, such as most groceries, prescription drugs, and certain business-to-business transactions. Always check the Maryland Comptroller's office for the most up-to-date information on taxable and exempt items.
Using this calculator provides an estimate based on the selected tax rate. For official tax advice, consult the Maryland Comptroller of the Treasury or a qualified tax professional.