Free Wisconsin Car Sales Tax Calculator
Work out the Wisconsin car sales tax on a new or used car. Wisconsin charges sales tax (5%) plus county tax, about 5.72% on average with local taxes. Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.
Wisconsin car sales tax rules
- Tax type: Sales tax (5%) plus county tax
- Rate used in the calculator: 5.72% (state 5% plus the average local rate; up to 7.9% in some areas)
- Local taxes: Most counties add 0.5% (Milwaukee County 0.9%), based on where the car is kept.
- Trade-in credit: Yes, when the trade-in is part of the same deal with the same seller.
- Manufacturer rebates: Taxed: tax is figured on the price before the rebate.
- Also note: Tax on a new car is figured before the manufacturer rebate.
Tax on common car prices in Wisconsin
| Price | Tax | Tax with $5,000 trade-in | Price + tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $572.00 | $286.00 | $10,572.00 |
| $20,000 | $1,144.00 | $858.00 | $21,144.00 |
| $30,000 | $1,716.00 | $1,430.00 | $31,716.00 |
| $40,000 | $2,288.00 | $2,002.00 | $42,288.00 |
| $50,000 | $2,860.00 | $2,574.00 | $52,860.00 |
Other costs when you buy a car
On top of the tax, expect title, registration and plate fees, and a dealer documentation fee. Check whether the car fits your budget with the car affordability calculator, or compare with a lease.
Frequently asked questions
How much is sales tax on a car in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin charges sales tax (5%) plus county tax, about 5.72% on average with local taxes. Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.
How much tax will I pay on a $30,000 car in Wisconsin?
About $1,716.00 at 5.72%, or $1,430.00 with a $5,000 trade-in. Title, registration and plate fees are extra.
Does a trade-in reduce car sales tax in Wisconsin?
Yes, when the trade-in is part of the same deal with the same seller.
Do local taxes apply to cars in Wisconsin?
Most counties add 0.5% (Milwaukee County 0.9%), based on where the car is kept.
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