What Items Are Exempt From Sales Tax in New Jersey?

Sales Tax Exemptions in New Jersey

  • New Jersey doesn’t collect sales tax on most prescription drugs, groceries, and clothing.
  • Some items may not be eligible for reduced sales tax rates, such as expensive clothing, unhealthy food/drinks, and certain non-essential pharmaceuticals.
  • Items like groceries, household paper products, medicine, and clothes are exempt from all sales taxes.
  • Gasoline purchases are not subject to the New Jersey Sales Tax, but a Gasoline Excise Tax does apply.
  • Some counties in New Jersey have a local sales tax rate of 3.5% in addition to the statewide rate.

New Jersey Sales Tax Overview

  • The sales tax rate in New Jersey is 6.625%, while some counties collect a 3.5% local sales tax instead of the state tax.
  • Articles of clothing or footwear for human use are generally tax exempt in New Jersey.
  • Etsy does not automatically charge sales tax.
  • New Jersey first adopted a 2% sales tax in 1935, repealed it quickly, and then reinstated it at 3% in 1966.
  • Since then, the base sales tax rate has risen to 6.625%.

Exclusions from Sales Tax in New Jersey

  • Services tax depends on where they are performed or sold.
  • Tangible personal property serviced in New Jersey but delivered out of state is exempt.
  • The Bulk Sale Statute protects purchasers from inheriting sellers’ tax debt when buying business assets.
  • Additional exempt categories in New Jersey include certain professional services, real estate sales, unprepared food, straws, and sunglasses.

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