The state of Massachusetts imposes a sales and use tax on most retail sales, leases and rentals of tangible personal property, as well as certain services. The current statewide sales tax rate is 6.25%, and some local jurisdictions may also impose additional sales taxes. In this guide, we will explore the top 10 sales taxes in Massachusetts that may apply to purchasing a mattress.Massachusetts Sales and Use Tax
If you are a business owner in Massachusetts, it is important to understand the sales tax laws and regulations that apply to your business. The Department of Revenue provides a comprehensive Sales and Use Tax Guide for Businesses, which outlines the rules and guidelines for collecting and remitting sales taxes. This guide is a valuable resource for understanding your sales tax obligations as a business owner in Massachusetts, including any taxes that may apply to the sale of mattresses.Massachusetts Sales Tax Guide for Businesses
In addition to the statewide sales tax rate, many cities and counties in Massachusetts may also impose their own sales tax rates. These local taxes vary by location and can range from 0.25% to 1%, and are in addition to the statewide tax rate. It is important to check with the specific city or county where you are purchasing a mattress to determine if any local sales taxes apply.Massachusetts Sales Tax Rates By City & County 2021
As a consumer, it can be helpful to have a sales tax calculator handy when making purchases in Massachusetts. The Department of Revenue offers an online calculator that allows you to easily calculate the total sales tax on a purchase. This can be especially useful when making large purchases such as a mattress, where the sales tax can significantly impact the final cost.Massachusetts Sales Tax Calculator
While most purchases in Massachusetts are subject to the statewide sales tax rate, there are some exemptions that may apply. For example, certain essential items like groceries and prescription medications are exempt from sales tax. Additionally, there are exemptions for certain types of clothing, such as footwear and clothing items under $175. It is important to review the list of sales tax exemptions to determine if any may apply to your purchase of a mattress in Massachusetts.Massachusetts Sales Tax Exemptions
Every year, the state of Massachusetts holds a tax-free weekend where most purchases under $2,500 are exempt from the sales tax. This can be a great opportunity to save on larger purchases, such as a mattress. However, it is important to note that this sales tax holiday only applies to the statewide tax rate and does not exempt any local sales taxes that may apply.Massachusetts Sales Tax Holiday
In recent years, many states including Massachusetts have implemented sales tax laws on online purchases. This means that if you purchase a mattress online from a retailer located in Massachusetts, you will be subject to the statewide sales tax rate. However, if you purchase from an out-of-state retailer, you may still be responsible for paying the sales tax directly to the state.Massachusetts Sales Tax on Online Purchases
In addition to tangible personal property, some services in Massachusetts are also subject to the sales tax. This can include services such as landscaping, dry cleaning, and personal training. If you are purchasing a mattress from a retailer that also offers delivery and set-up services, you may be subject to the sales tax on those services as well.Massachusetts Sales Tax on Services
As mentioned earlier, there are exemptions for certain types of clothing in Massachusetts. However, it is important to note that not all clothing items are exempt from sales tax. For example, formal wear and costume rentals are subject to the sales tax. When purchasing a mattress, it is important to check the sales tax rate for any clothing items that may be included in the purchase.Massachusetts Sales Tax on Clothing
Many states exempt food and groceries from sales tax, but unfortunately, Massachusetts is not one of them. Most food and grocery items are subject to the statewide sales tax rate, with the exception of certain items such as baby formula and dietary supplements. If you are purchasing a mattress from a retailer that also offers food and grocery items, you may be responsible for paying the sales tax on those items as well.Massachusetts Sales Tax on Food and Groceries