Massachusetts sales tax rules
Quick answer
Massachusetts charges a 6.25% statewide sales tax with no local add-ons. What gets taxed matters as much as the rate: below is how Massachusetts treats each category that commonly changes a receipt total.
Direct answers
Each answer has its own page with the full rule and exceptions.
Is there sales tax on groceries in Massachusetts?
No. Groceries bought for home preparation are exempt from Massachusetts state sales tax. Prepared and restaurant food is still taxable.
Is clothing taxed in Massachusetts?
Only above the cap. Clothing under $175 per item is exempt in Massachusetts; anything priced above that is taxed.
Is shipping taxable in Massachusetts?
No, not when separately stated. Massachusetts exempts delivery charges that appear as their own line on the invoice.
Do I have to charge sales tax for online sales in Massachusetts?
Only after you cross economic nexus. Once you exceed $100,000 in sales into Massachusetts over 12 months, you must register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue and charge the buyer's destination rate.
Does Massachusetts have a tax-free weekend?
Yes. Massachusetts runs a sales tax holiday: Statewide weekend holiday in August on most retail items under $2,500. Qualifying purchases skip the full combined rate, which runs 6.25% in covered Massachusetts metros.
Massachusetts rates by city
Combined state, county, city and district rates.