Please note: This blog was originally published in 2021. It’s since been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Most states consider clothing taxable, but a handful of states have legislated that clothing is either entirely non-taxable or only taxable when priced above a certain threshold. Then some states, like Connecticut, take sales tax on clothing a step farther and even pose a luxury tax on clothing and footwear price at more than $1,000. This can make knowing where and how much sales tax to charge as a clothing seller pretty confusing.
To help, we’ve create a list of states with sales tax exemptions around clothing. We hope this helps you to more easily comply with sales tax laws in your state.
Which states charge sales tax on clothing?
This is a list of states where clothing is generally taxable, with exceptions noted.
California – Sales tax exemptions allowed for some nonprofits and thrift stores providing clothing to the needy.
Connecticut – Clothing and footwear that costs more than $1,000 is subject to the luxury goods tax. (As of July 1, 2015.)
Idaho – Some exemptions regarding free clothing for charity apply.
Mississippi – Clothing, footwear, and accessories used in motion pictures may be exempt.
Ohio – Some protective clothing/gear may be tax exempt.
South Carolina – Some protective clothing/gear may be tax exempt.
Tennessee – Sales tax exemptions allowed for some nonprofits and thrift stores providing used clothing to the needy.
Virginia – Some protective clothing/gear may be tax exempt.
Which states have ruled clothing sales tax exempt?
These states do not consider clothing taxable, but many of them include exceptions, so find your state to find out more about the taxability of clothing.
Massachusetts
Clothing is mostly tax exempt, but exemption is limited to the first $175 of an article of clothing. Certain clothing and footwear designed for athletic activity or protective use are taxable. Learn more about Massachusetts clothing taxability here.
Minnesota
Clothing is tax exempt, but accessories, most protective equipment, sports and recreational clothing, and fur clothing are taxable.
New Jersey
Clothing is tax exempt, but fur clothing, clothing accessories or equipment, sport or recreational equipment, or protective equipment are taxable. Protective equipment is only exempt when purchased for the daily work of the user and worn as part of a work uniform or work clothing.
New York
Clothing is tax exempt, but exemption is limited to clothing and footwear costing less than $110 per item or pair. Clothing and footwear costing $110 or more per item or pair are taxable. Click here for our detailed explanation of New York clothing taxability.
Pennsylvania
Clothing is tax exempt, but accessories, fur clothing, ornamental and formal clothing, and sports-related clothing are taxable.
Rhode Island
Clothing is tax exempt, but accessories, protective clothing and athletic clothing are taxable. Effective October 1, 2012, exemption only applies to first $250 of sales price per item of clothing. (Meaning only the amount above $250 is subject to sales tax.)
Vermont
Clothing is tax exempt, but clothing accessories or equipment, protective equipment, and sports clothing/equipment are taxable.
How TaxJar can help
With the TaxJar API, all you have to do is simply label each of your products or services with the right product tax code and we’ll make sure you collect (or don’t collect) the right amount of sales tax on that item from every buyer, every time.
Ready to automate sales tax? To learn more about TaxJar and get started, visit TaxJar.com/how-it-works.
