Washington's statewide sales tax is 6.5 percent

Washington State charges a 6.5 percent sales tax on most retail purchases. This is the base rate that applies everywhere in the state. However, your actual tax rate depends on where you live or shop, because cities and counties add their own local taxes on top of the state rate.

The total you pay at checkout is the state rate plus any local taxes in that jurisdiction. A purchase in Seattle will have a different total tax rate than the same purchase in Spokane or a small town in rural Washington. This means the tax you see on your receipt varies by location, even though the state portion is always 6.5 percent.

Key Takeaways

  • Washington State's base sales tax rate is 6.5 percent, but your total rate includes local city and county taxes added on top.
  • Total sales tax rates in Washington range from 6.5 percent to over 10 percent depending on your city and county.
  • Food for home consumption, prescription medications, and some medical equipment are exempt from sales tax in Washington.
  • You can find your exact local tax rate by entering your address on the Washington Department of Revenue website or asking a retailer.

How local taxes stack on top of the state rate

Washington allows cities and counties to add their own sales tax on top of the 6.5 percent state rate. Most cities charge between 0.5 and 2.5 percent additional tax. Some counties add another layer. This means a single purchase can be taxed at the state rate plus two separate local rates.

For example, if you shop in a city that adds 1.5 percent and a county that adds 0.5 percent, your total sales tax would be 6.5 + 1.5 + 0.5 = 8.5 percent. The same item bought in a different city or county would have a different total rate. Seattle's combined rate is higher than many smaller Washington cities.

The state does not set these local rates — each city and county decides whether to add tax and how much. This is why you need to know your specific location to find your exact rate, rather than just knowing the state number.

What is and is not taxed in Washington

Most items you buy in stores are subject to sales tax in Washington. Clothing, electronics, furniture, and most other goods are taxed at your local combined rate. However, certain categories are exempt — meaning no sales tax applies, even though the state rate exists.

Food you buy to cook at home is not taxed. This includes groceries like milk, bread, vegetables, and meat from a supermarket. Restaurant meals and prepared foods are taxed. Prescription medications are exempt from sales tax. Over-the-counter medicines like cold medicine or pain relievers are taxed.

Medical equipment prescribed by a doctor — such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or diabetic supplies — is typically exempt. However, some items fall into gray areas. If you are unsure whether something is taxed, ask the retailer before you buy, or contact the Washington Department of Revenue.

Finding your exact local sales tax rate

The Washington Department of Revenue maintains a tax rate lookup tool on its website. You enter your street address, city, or ZIP code, and the tool shows you the exact combined rate for that location. This is the most reliable way to know what you will pay.

You can also call a local retailer and ask what sales tax rate applies to their location. Many stores have this information readily available. If you are planning a large purchase, knowing your exact rate beforehand helps you budget accurately.

Tax rates can change when cities or counties pass new measures. The Department of Revenue updates its rates regularly, so if you checked your rate more than a year ago, it is worth checking again.

Sales tax on online and out-of-state purchases

Washington requires online retailers to collect and send sales tax to the state, even if the company is based outside Washington. This applies to most major retailers. You pay the same combined rate (state plus local) as you would in a physical store in your area.

Some smaller online sellers may not collect Washington sales tax. If you buy from an out-of-state seller who does not collect tax, Washington law says you owe use tax — which is the same rate as sales tax. Most people do not pay use tax voluntarily, but it is technically owed.

For practical purposes, assume you will pay sales tax on online purchases from major retailers. Smaller or international sellers vary in their tax collection practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Washington have sales tax on groceries?

No. Food you buy at a grocery store to prepare at home is not taxed. This includes produce, meat, dairy, bread, and canned goods. However, prepared foods like deli items, hot foods, or restaurant meals are taxed at your local rate.

What is the highest sales tax rate in Washington?

The highest combined rates are in some cities in King County (Seattle area) and other urban areas, reaching over 10 percent. The lowest rate is 6.5 percent in areas with no local city or county tax added. Your exact rate depends on your specific address.

Are prescription drugs taxed in Washington?

No. Prescription medications are exempt from sales tax. Over-the-counter medicines and vitamins are taxed. If you are unsure whether a specific medication is considered a prescription drug, ask the pharmacist before you buy.

Do I pay sales tax on used items?

Sales tax applies to used items sold by retailers, including used cars, used furniture, and used electronics from a store. Private sales between individuals typically do not involve sales tax, though this depends on the situation. Ask the seller if you are unsure.