Rhode Island state tax: Overview
Rhode Island state tax is high where property taxes are concerned. The higher-than-average tax rate and home values (compared to other states) can drive up tax bills. However, the sales tax rate in Rhode Island is reasonable, and income tax rates are fairly low compared to many other states, especially for taxpayers with higher incomes.
[Data for this state tax guide was gathered from a number of sources including the Census Bureau, the state’s government website, the Sales Tax Handbook, and the Tax Foundation. Property taxes are cited as a rate percentage rather than the assessed value.]
Rhode island income taxes
Rhode Island income tax range
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.
| Up to $73,450 | 3.75% |
| $73,450 to $166,950 | 4.75% |
| More than $166,950 | 5.99% |
Rhode Island tax on retirement income: Military and Railroad Retirement benefits are tax-exempt. Social Security retirement benefits are exempt for retirees with a federal adjusted gross income (AGI) below the income thresholds set by the state.
Taxpayers who have reached full retirement age can exclude up to $20,000 of income ($40,000 for joint filers) from annuities and pensions (excluding IRAs).
Rhode Island sales tax
Rhode Island's state sales tax rate is 7%. Localities do not impose additional sales taxes, according to the Tax Foundation.
- Groceries are tax-exempt.
- Clothing less than $250 is tax-exempt.
- Prescription drugs are tax-exempt.
- Women's menstrual products are tax-exempt.
- Diapers are tax-exempt.
How much are Rhode Island property taxes?
In Rhode Island, the average effective property tax rate is 1.53%, which can result in costly tax bills, especially considering high home values in the state (when compared to other states).
Rhode Island Property Tax Breaks for Retirees
Cities and towns in Rhode Island can offer property tax credits to eligible homeowners. For example, South Kingstown offers a property tax credit of up to $2,472 to retirees age 65 and older that meet the following criteria.
- Homeowners must have owned and resided at a property in South Kingston for the past five years.
- Household income must fall below specified income limits to qualify.
Property tax credit amounts and criteria may vary from town to town. Retirees in Rhode Island should check with the jurisdiction where they live for more information about available tax credits.
Rhode Island gas taxes (motor fuel)
Gasoline: $0.37 per gallon.
Diesel: $0.37 per gallon.
Rhode Island taxes on alcohol and tobacco
| Cigarettes | $4.25 per pack |
| Other tobacco products | 80% of wholesale price |
| Beer | $0.10 per gallon |
| Wine | $1.40 per gallon |
| Liquor | $5.40 per gallon |
Rhode Island estate and inheritance taxes
Rhode Island doesn't have an inheritance tax, but the state has an estate tax. Only estates valued at more than $1,733,264 are subject to the tax. Estate tax rates in Rhode Island range from 0.8% to 16%.
Related Content
-
-
Four Threats to the Distribution Phase of Retirement
Keep challenges such as inflation, market volatility and more in mind when it’s time for you to shift from saving for retirement to spending.
-
Using a 529 Plan? Here’s What to Keep in Mind
As the school year progresses, ensure you’re using the money for qualified expenses and keeping track of documentation. Taxes and options for unused funds are also considerations.
-
A Little-Known Tax-Free Way To Help Pay Your Student Loan
Student Debt Employers can provide valuable assistance with employee student loan repayments.
-
Tax Tips for National Preparedness Month
Disaster Preparedness September is National Preparedness Month. These tips can help you secure important documents and information — before a disaster happens.
-
Places That Now Have More Time To Pay Estimated Tax
Tax Deadlines Estimated tax payments are due soon — September 15 in most cases. But many people have more time to pay the IRS due to natural disasters. Are you one of them?
-
IRS Announces Florida Tax Relief Following Hurricane Idalia
Tax Deadline In response to the severe damage caused by Hurricane Idalia, the IRS has extended tax deadlines for affected Floridians.
-
Will Your State Rebate Check Be Taxed for 2023?
State Rebates Here's what the IRS says about taxing 'state stimulus checks' and other special state rebates and what it could mean for you.
-
Most Expensive States for Millionaires in 2023
Income Tax If you earn a lot of money, you may want to avoid these most expensive states for millionaires. Some high earners in these areas could pay income tax rates greater than 50%.
-
Hawaii IRS Tax Deadline Extended After Devastating Wildfires
Tax Relief Some Hawaii tax deadlines have been extended by the IRS following devastating wildfires. Here's what impacted residents should know.
-
Best States for Middle-Class Families Who Hate Paying Taxes
State Taxes Here are the best states for middle-class families with "middle incomes" (due to low tax burdens).
