Taxes on Fireworks: Is Your State a Dud?
A handful of states impose special excise taxes on the sale of consumer fireworks.

It's not really the Fourth of July without the flash, boom and crackle of a good fireworks display. Some people love the crowds and grandeur of a big-city extravaganza, while others prefer a community display at the local volunteer fire department. Then there's the backyard fireworks master who provides an Independence Day show for the neighborhood. If that's you, then it's time to stock up on the roman candles, bottle rockets, sparklers and other pyrotechnics you'll need for an unforgettable display. Just beware the explosive tax bill that some states impose!
In 2018, the U.S. pyrotechnics industry raked in $945 million in consumer fireworks sales (plus another $360 million in sales to professional pyrotechnicians). It's hard for some state lawmakers to see those types of revenue figures and not want a piece of the action for their state's coffers. Most states have resisted the temptation, but five states have slapped state-wide excise taxes on the sale of fireworks. Their special "fireworks tax" rates range from 5% to 12%—and that's on top of the regular state and local sales taxes imposed where the fireworks are sold. If you're spending hundreds of dollars (or more???) on your backyard fireworks display, the extra taxes can add up quickly. If you live in one of the states that impose a special tax on fireworks, it might be worthwhile to drive to another state where taxes on firecrackers aren't as high. The extra cost for gas could be far less than the taxes you'll save.
Check out the table below to see if your state imposes a special excise tax on fireworks.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
2019 State Excise Taxes on Fireworks
State | Tax Rate |
---|---|
Georgia | 5% |
Indiana | 5% |
Michigan | 6% |
Pennsylvania | 12% |
West Virginia | 12% |
Get Kiplinger Today newsletter — free
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.
Rocky Mengle was a Senior Tax Editor for Kiplinger from October 2018 to January 2023 with more than 20 years of experience covering federal and state tax developments. Before coming to Kiplinger, Rocky worked for Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, and Kleinrock Publishing, where he provided breaking news and guidance for CPAs, tax attorneys, and other tax professionals. He has also been quoted as an expert by USA Today, Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Reuters, Accounting Today, and other media outlets. Rocky holds a law degree from the University of Connecticut and a B.A. in History from Salisbury University.
-
Fired Up By the Masters and RBC Heritage? See These Homes for Sale By Golf Courses
Five homes for sale near golf courses, for people who can't get enough of the tour.
By Alexandra Svokos
-
The Economic Impact of the US-China Trade War
The Letter The US-China trade war will impact US consumers and business. The decoupling process could be messy.
By David Payne
-
Which Generation Pays the Most Tax in the US?
Tax Burden Polls show that most people feel like taxes are unfair. But which age group bears the brunt of the tax burden in the United States?
By Kelley R. Taylor
-
Tax Day 2025: Don’t Miss These Freebies, Food Deals and Discounts
Tax Day You can score some sweet deals on April 15 in some select restaurants like Burger King, Shake Shack, and more.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
Tax Time: Does Your Kid Influencer Owe Taxes?
State Tax Some minors are making big money on social media. Here’s how to know if they need to file taxes.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
Trump Plans to Terminate IRS Direct File program
Tax Filing The IRS Direct File program was piloted last year in 12 states and has since expanded to 25. But will it last under the Trump administration?
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
How Caregivers for Adults Can Save on Taxes in 2025
Tax Breaks Caring for your parent or spouse can be stressful, but the IRS offers tax breaks for qualifying taxpayers. Here they are.
By Kate Schubel
-
U.S. Treasury to Eliminate Paper Checks: What It Means for Tax Refunds, Social Security
Treasury President Trump signed an executive order forcing the federal government to phase out paper check disbursements by the fall.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
IRS Layoffs Spark Delays, Doubt This Tax Season
Tax Season Tax experts say Trump’s downsizing of the IRS is already causing problems.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
States with the Highest Income Tax Rates for Retirees
State Tax You may reconsider living and retiring in one of these states due to high taxes.
By Kate Schubel