One reverse formula works in all fifty states: divide your tax-included total by (1 + rate). Only the combined percentage changes with location.
One reverse formula works in all fifty states: divide your tax-included total by (1 + rate). Only the combined percentage changes with location.
Step 2 — Your breakdown
We reverse the tax using the standard formula:
Enter a total and tax rate to see your breakdown.
Original Price = Final Price ÷ (1 + Rate ÷ 100). Oregon and other low-tax locations may use 0% or local-only rates—enter what the receipt shows.
Louisiana, Tennessee, and California often have double-digit combined rates; always use the actual charged percentage, not a national average.
In-store purchases use the store’s address. Online orders use ship-to. Business travel expenses use the jurisdiction on the invoice.
Browse the state directory for typical base rates and localized FAQs when you do not yet have a receipt.
You paid $108.25 including 8.25% sales tax and need the merchandise amount for bookkeeping.
Pre-tax: $100.00 | Tax: $8.25 | Total: $108.25
Reverse math is for splitting receipts and estimates—it does not replace filing obligations, nexus analysis, or professional tax advice. Confirm rates with your state revenue department or marketplace reports before remitting.
Yes. Enter your actual combined sales tax rate for the transaction location.
This tool targets US sales tax. International VAT uses similar reverse math but different rules.
Yes, when you enter the combined sales tax rate that applied to that specific transaction.
