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Sales tax by state / California

Sales tax on an invoice in California

California's state sales tax rate is 7.25%. Local governments add an average of 1.78%, up to 5.25%, so the average combined rate is 9.03%.

The invoice below starts with the state rate. Change it to the rate for the place the tax applies to.

California sales tax rates

State rate
7.25%
Rank 1 of 50 states and DC by state rate (1 is highest)
Average local rate
1.78%
Population-weighted, as of January 1, 2026
Highest local rate
5.25%
Average combined rate
9.03%
Rank 7
  • The state rate includes a mandatory statewide 1.25% local add-on, which the Tax Foundation counts in the state rate.

Source: Tax Foundation, State & Local Sales Tax Rates as of July 1, 2026, read on 2026-10-26. Local rates are weighted by population to give an average. Sources the Tax Foundation lists: Sales Tax Clearinghouse, its own calculations, and state revenue department websites. Rates change, so check with California's revenue department before you rely on one.

Which rate goes on the invoice

Sales tax depends on what you sell, where it is delivered and who it is for. The tool applies the rate you enter after any discount, and adds shipping afterwards without tax. For the basics every invoice needs, see what to put on an invoice. To work out the tax on one price, use the sales tax calculator.

Questions

What sales tax rate do I put on an invoice in California?
Use the rate that applies to your sale. The state's own rate is 7.25%. Local governments may add to it, and the average combined rate is 9.03%, so the right figure for your invoice depends on the place the tax applies to. The invoice tool starts at the state rate and lets you change it.
Do I charge sales tax on services in California?
That depends on what the service is and who it is for, and it is set by the state. This page gives rates, not rules about what is taxed. Ask California's department of revenue or an accountant.
Is the combined rate exact?
No. It is the state rate plus a population-weighted average of local rates, so it describes a typical sale, not yours. City, county and district rates vary, and they change.

Other states