Is there sales tax on groceries in Delaware?
Quick answer
Delaware has no general state sales tax, so groceries are untaxed at the state level.
Delaware has no general state sales tax, so groceries are not taxed at the state level.
Rule summary
How Delaware treats each category.
| Grocery food (home consumption) | Not taxed by the state |
|---|---|
| Prepared and restaurant food | Not taxed by the state |
| Candy and soft drinks | Not taxed by the state |
| Prescription medicine | Exempt |
Source: Delaware Division of Revenue · rates as published for 2026
This page summarizes the general rule. Every state writes exceptions for specific products, and local jurisdictions can differ from the state treatment. Confirm your situation with the Delaware Division of Revenue or a tax professional before relying on it for filing.
Combined rates in Delaware
What a taxable purchase actually costs in Delaware.
Frequently asked
Answers pulled from the same rule set.
- Is there sales tax on groceries in Delaware?
- Delaware has no general state sales tax, so groceries are untaxed at the state level.
- Is prepared food taxed differently than groceries in Delaware?
- Yes. Delaware treats hot, ready-to-eat and restaurant food as a taxable retail sale even where unprepared grocery food is exempt or reduced.
- Are prescription drugs taxable in Delaware?
- No. Prescription medicine is exempt from sales tax in Delaware.
More Delaware guides
Other Delaware rules that change the total.