Comptroller of Maryland. Serving the People. Peter Franchot, Comptroller
Spotlight on Maryland

Sales and Use Tax

Businesses in Maryland are required to collect Maryland's 6 percent sales and use tax from you whenever you make a taxable purchase. The sale of tangible personal property is generally taxable except as otherwise provided by law; the sale of a service is generally not taxable except for certain taxable services provided by law.

For example, food sold in grocery stores and prescription medicines are generally not taxable. Furthermore, there are no additional sales taxes imposed locally in Maryland.

Use tax

Every time you purchase taxable tangible goods, whether in person, over the phone, or on the Internet, the purchase is subject to Maryland's 6 percent sales and use tax if you use the merchandise in Maryland. For more information, see Use Tax.

Additional Information
Medicine and Medical Equipment
Flea Market Sales
Sales of Food
Mobile Homes
Transient Vendors
Sales by Nonprofit Organizations
Veterans Organizations
Credit for Sales Taxes Paid to Other States
Sales and Use Tax Rate Chart-6%
Alcoholic Beverage Tax Rate Chart-9%
Business Tax Refunds
Use Tax
Frequently Asked Questions