Illinois Sales Tax Calculator
Calculate Illinois sales tax. State rate: 6.25%, average combined: 8.83%. Free calculator with Chicago rates. Verified April 2026.
Verified as of 2026-04. Rates may vary by locality.
Illinois Sales Tax Overview
Illinois has a 6.25% state sales tax rate with local additions making the average combined rate 8.83%. Chicago's 10.25% rate is one of the highest in the nation, significantly impacting major purchases. The reduced 1% rate on groceries provides some relief. This calculator computes the correct tax for your Illinois purchase.
Illinois Sales Tax Rates
| Rate Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Illinois State Rate | 6.25% |
| Average Local Rate | 2.58% |
| Average Combined Rate | 8.83% |
Verified as of 2026-04. Always check your local jurisdiction for the exact rate.
Items Exempt from Illinois Sales Tax
- Prescription medications
- Medical appliances
- Most grocery food (taxed at 1%)
- Farm equipment and supplies
How to Calculate Illinois Sales Tax
- Enter your purchase amount in the calculator above.
- State tax is calculated as: Amount × 6.25% = State Tax
- Local tax is calculated as: Amount × 2.58% = Local Tax
- Total = Purchase Amount + State Tax + Local Tax
Illinois Sales Tax Tips
- Illinois has one of the most complex sales tax structures in the US. The state rate is 6.25%, but with local additions the combined rate in Chicago reaches 10.25%. Cook County alone adds 1.75%, plus the city adds another 1.25%, plus the RTA adds 1%.
- Illinois taxes groceries at a reduced rate of 1% (state) vs the full 6.25% for general merchandise. This reduced rate applies to food for human consumption that isn't prepared for immediate eating. Candy and soft drinks are taxed at the full rate.
- Illinois charges different state rates based on product type: general merchandise at 6.25%, qualifying food and drugs at 1%, and vehicle purchases at 6.25% plus local taxes. Always check which rate category your purchase falls into.
Other State Tax Calculators
- Texas Sales Tax Calculator
- California Sales Tax Calculator
- Florida Sales Tax Calculator
- New York Sales Tax Calculator
For official tax rate information, see USA.gov — State Tax Information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax in Chicago?
Chicago has one of the highest combined sales tax rates in the US at 10.25% (6.25% state + 1.75% city + 1% county + 1.25% RTA). This rate applies to most general merchandise.
Are groceries taxed in Illinois?
Groceries are taxed at a reduced rate of 1% at the state level in Illinois (vs 6.25% for general merchandise). Local taxes may add to this. Prepared food and candy are taxed at the full rate.
What is the sales tax rate outside Chicago?
Outside Chicago, combined rates range from 6.25% (state minimum with no local tax) to about 10%. Suburban Cook County areas average around 9-10%, while downstate communities are generally 7-8%.
Does Illinois tax online purchases?
Yes. Illinois requires remote sellers and marketplace facilitators to collect sales tax on online sales to Illinois customers. The rate is based on the buyer's location.
The calculators on The Simple Toolbox are for educational and planning purposes only. Results are estimates based on your inputs and standard assumptions — they are not financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult a qualified professional before making significant financial decisions.
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