Kentucky sales tax calculator
Nail your numbers every time with Xero's sales tax calculator for Kentucky. Get fast, accurate tax figures for your invoices and expenses – no downloads required.
- Instantly calculate sales tax for any amount
- Determine the correct tax to add to your prices
- Avoid costly errors by calculating the exact amount
Tired of manual calculations?
Let Xero handle the numbers so you can focus on growing your business. Get one month free.
Kentucky sales tax rates
Unlike many other states, Kentucky doesn't allow local jurisdictions to add their own sales taxes. This means you'll pay the same 6% rate whether you're in Louisville, Lexington, or anywhere else in the Bluegrass State.
- State Sales Tax Rate: 6.00%
- Average Local Tax Rate: 0.00%
- Maximum Local Tax Rate: 0.00%
- Average Combined Rate: 6.00%
How to register for sales tax in Kentucky
Register your business online through the Kentucky Business One Stop Portal. Kentucky Business One Stop Portal.
Gather your business information
You will need your business name, structure type, Federal EIN, and business address.
Register online via One Stop
Register on the Kentucky Business One Stop Portal and select “Sales and Use Tax.”
Display your permit
Once approved, you will receive your tax permit. State law requires that you display this permit.
Kentucky sales tax filing due dates
Stay compliant with these filing deadlines. Your specific frequency is assigned by the Kentucky Department of Revenue based on your tax liability.
- Monthly Filers: Due by the 20th of the following month (most common for regular businesses).
- Quarterly Filers: Due by the 20th of the month following the quarter end.
- Annual Filers: Due by January 20 for the prior year (typically for very small liabilities).
Important note:
The Department of Revenue will notify you of your assigned frequency upon registration. Mark your calendar to avoid late penalties.
Simplify Kentucky sales tax with Xero
Xero helps you through your entire Kentucky sales tax process. It automatically applies correct tax rates to every invoice and generates compliant reports for filing. Eliminate spreadsheet errors, ensure accuracy, and spend more time focusing on growing your business instead of on tax compliance.
Get one month free
FAQs about Kentucky sales tax
Kentucky exempts groceries, prescription drugs, and certain manufacturing equipment from sales tax. For a complete list of exemptions, check with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.
Kentucky exempts groceries, prescription drugs, and certain manufacturing equipment from sales tax. For a complete list of exemptions, check with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.
Yes, if you have economic nexus in Kentucky (over $100,000 in sales or 200 transactions annually), you must collect sales tax on online sales to Kentucky customers.
Yes, if you have economic nexus in Kentucky (over $100,000 in sales or 200 transactions annually), you must collect sales tax on online sales to Kentucky customers.
Operating without proper registration can result in penalties, interest charges on uncollected taxes, and potential criminal charges. Register as soon as you start making taxable sales.
Operating without proper registration can result in penalties, interest charges on uncollected taxes, and potential criminal charges. Register as soon as you start making taxable sales.
Your filing frequency depends on your tax liability – most businesses file monthly by the 20th, but smaller businesses may qualify for quarterly or annual filing.
Your filing frequency depends on your tax liability – most businesses file monthly by the 20th, but smaller businesses may qualify for quarterly or annual filing.
More tools for your business
Gross margin calculator
Enter your costs and revenue to discover your gross margin – and the potential success of your business.
Cash flow calculator
Work out how much money is flowing in and out of your business, including taxes.
Free invoice template
Create professional invoices quickly with our template, including all details and payment terms.
Get one month free
Sign up to any Xero plan, and we will give you the first month free.
Disclaimer
Xero does not provide accounting, tax, business or legal advice. This calculator has been provided for information purposes only. You should consult your own professional advisors for advice directly relating to your business.