Washington Sales Tax Calculator 2026
Washington administers a retail sales tax and a complementary use tax with a fixed state-level rate, together with additional local sales and use taxes imposed by local jurisdictions. This calculator provides a simplified overview of how Washington’s sales and use tax system is structured.
Estimates are shown for the 2026 tax year. In cases where official figures have not yet been finalized, calculations are based on the most recently available data and may be updated when final guidance is published.
Enter the purchase price before sales tax.
Estimated sales tax
Shows an estimated sales tax amount based on the configured rates.
Washington Sales Tax Calculator 2026 – how it works
Washington imposes a retail sales tax at the state level and a complementary use tax that applies when sales tax was not paid at the time of purchase. The state portion of both taxes is set at 6.50%. Local jurisdictions may impose additional sales and use taxes, which can change the combined rate depending on location. Use tax is generally based on where an item is first used in the state rather than where the sale occurred.
Examples
A simplified estimate applies the Washington state sales tax rate of 6.50% to a taxable amount to determine the state portion of tax. When sales tax was not paid, use tax may apply instead, using the same state-level rate and incorporating any applicable local jurisdiction taxes based on where the item is first used. These examples focus only on the structure of the state component and do not reflect specific local rates.
Limitations and important notes
Results are simplified estimates and may not reflect the total tax due. While the state portion is fixed at 6.50%, additional local sales and use taxes imposed by local jurisdictions can affect the combined rate. Use tax outcomes can also depend on where an item is first used in the state and whether sales tax was previously paid. For authoritative guidance, consult the Washington State Department of Revenue.
FAQs about Washington Sales Tax Calculator 2026
What does this Washington sales tax estimate include?
This estimate reflects the state-level portion of Washington’s retail sales and use tax system, which is set at 6.50%. It does not include additional local jurisdiction sales or use taxes that may apply based on location.
Is Washington sales tax flat-rate?
At the state level, Washington’s sales tax is applied at a fixed rate. Local jurisdictions may impose additional taxes that vary by location, but this variation is due to local layering rather than brackets or progressive rate structures.
How is Washington use tax related to sales tax?
Use tax is complementary to sales tax and applies when Washington sales tax was not paid at the time of purchase. It uses the same state-level rate and is generally based on where the item is first used in Washington.
Why can the total tax rate vary by location in Washington?
Although the state portion of Washington sales and use tax is fixed, local jurisdictions may impose additional sales and use taxes. These local taxes can cause the combined rate to vary depending on location.
Are the results from this calculator official?
No. The results are simplified estimates intended to describe the structure of Washington’s sales and use tax system. They do not replace official determinations made under Washington law or guidance issued by the Department of Revenue.
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Calculations are simplified and for guidance only. Always double-check results and current rules with official sources or a qualified professional before making financial decisions.