Is clothing taxed in Rhode Island?
Quick answer
Only above the cap. Clothing under $250 per item is exempt in Rhode Island; anything priced above that is taxed.
Clothing and footwear are exempt up to $250 per item; only the excess above $250 is taxed.
Rule summary
How Rhode Island treats each category.
| Everyday clothing and footwear | Exempt under $250 per item |
|---|---|
| Accessories, jewelry, handbags | Taxable in nearly every state, including exemption states |
| Sports and protective equipment | Taxable — treated as equipment, not clothing |
| Sales tax holiday | None |
Source: Rhode Island Division of Taxation · 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 Rhode Island Division of Taxation or a tax professional before relying on it for filing.
Combined rates in Rhode Island
What a taxable purchase actually costs in Rhode Island.
Frequently asked
Answers pulled from the same rule set.
- Is clothing taxed in Rhode Island?
- Only above the cap. Clothing under $250 per item is exempt in Rhode Island; anything priced above that is taxed.
- Are shoes taxed in Rhode Island?
- Footwear follows the clothing rule: exempt up to $250 per pair, taxable above it.
More Rhode Island guides
Other Rhode Island rules that change the total.