The largest city in Maine is Portland, which also has the highest state sales tax. The combined 5.5% state sales tax and an extra 2.5% local tax make up Portland’s 8% sales tax rate. In Portland, there is an additional 0.5% tax that supports funding for transportation projects, bringing the whole sales tax rate to 8%. Does Maine impose a sales tax?
The majority of goods and services are subject to sales tax in Maine. Only groceries, prescription medications, and some medical equipment are free from sales tax in Maine. These goods might still be subject to a higher tax rate, though. Is Maine a State with High Taxes?
With an overall tax burden that is higher than the national average, Maine is regarded as a high tax state. In addition to a high income tax rate and higher property taxes than the national average, Maine also has a sales tax. However, the precise amount of taxes that a person in Maine must pay will differ based on their region, income level, and other criteria.
California has the highest sales tax in the nation, at a rate of 7.25%. However, the sales tax rates in some Californian communities are much higher, with some of them going as high as 10.25%. Washington (6.5%), Tennessee (7%), and Louisiana (4.45%) are additional states with high sales tax rates.
In conclusion, Maine levies a sales tax of 5.5% on the majority of its products and services. Portland has a higher sales tax rate of 8%, which includes both a local tax and a tax to pay for transportation infrastructure. Although Maine is regarded as having a high tax rate, an individual’s actual tax burden will vary depending on where they live and their income. The nation’s highest sales tax is levied in California, which is followed by other states with high rates, including Louisiana, Tennessee, and Washington.
Groceries, prescription medications, and medical equipment are among the products that are excluded from sales tax in Maine. Additionally, some services including legal and healthcare services are exempt from sales tax.