Owners of pets frequently ponder whether or not the food they purchase for their furry pals is taxable. Food for pets is taxed at the same rate as other tangible personal property in Ohio. Pet owners should be aware of a few exemptions and exceptions, though.
Pet food is regarded as a taxable item by the Ohio Department of Taxation. This means that you will be required to pay the county’s applicable sales tax rate when you purchase pet food. The same is true for other pet supplies like toys, cages, and grooming equipment. The amount of tax you pay may vary based on where you live because the sales tax rate in Ohio varies by county.
In Ohio, the sales tax law does have a few exceptions. For instance, you might not be required to pay sales tax if you purchase food for a service animal. Similar to this, you could not be required to pay sales tax if you buy food for a farm animal that will be put to use in farming. Additionally, some pet food products can qualify as “food for human consumption” and be exempt from paying sales tax. Items like raw meat, which can be used to make homemade pet food, fall under this category.
In Texas, things are a little bit different. Pet food is typically exempt from sales tax in Texas. Sales of pet food are not subject to taxation in Texas, according to the Comptroller of Public Accounts, “as long as the food is intended for consumption by pets or other animals and not by humans.” This implies that you shouldn’t be required to pay sales tax on pet food you purchase in Texas.
Texas does have a few exceptions to this generalization, though. Sales tax may apply if you purchase food that is promoted as pet food but is actually meant for human use. Additionally, if you purchase food for a domesticated animal—such as a chicken or a cow—that is grown for human use, you can also be charged sales tax on that purchase.
In conclusion, your state of residence and the particulars of your transaction will determine whether or not pet food is subject to taxes. In Ohio, there are a few exclusions and exceptions to the general rule that pet food is subject to sales tax. As long as it is meant for consumption by pets or other animals and not humans, pet food is exempt from sales tax in Texas. As always, if you have any doubts regarding what is taxable and what is not, you should consult your local tax office.