Wisconsin State Tax Guide
Wisconsin state tax rates and rules for income, sales, property, fuel, cigarette, and other taxes that impact residents.


Wisconsin state tax: Overview
Wisconsin has three income tax brackets, but most taxpayers fall into the middle bracket of 5.3%. Property taxes are on the high end, but the state has one of the lowest sales tax rates in the country.
However, Wisconsin still taxes some essential items, such as baby diapers. Your heirs won't pay state taxes on their inheritance, though because Wisconsin has no estate or inheritance tax.
[Data for this state tax guide was gathered from several sources including the U.S. 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.]

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.
Wisconsin income taxes
Wisconsin tax on retirement benefits: Wisconsin doesn't tax Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits. Military pay that is exempt from federal taxation is also exempt in Wisconsin.
Taxpayers age 65 and older in the state may deduct up to $5,000 of certain retirement income if they meet the following criteria.
- Have a federal adjusted gross income (AGI) of less than $15,000
- Have a federal AGI of less than $30,000 if married (regardless of whether filing jointly or separately)
Wisconsin Income Tax Range: Single and head of household filers
Up to $12,760 | 3.54% |
$12,761 to $25,520 | $451.70 + 4.65% of the amount over $12,760 |
$25,521 to $280,950 | $1,045.04 + 5.3% of the amount over $25,520 |
More than $280,950 | $14,582.83 + 7.65% of the amount over $280,950 |
Wisconsin Income Tax Range: Married filing jointly
Up to $17,010 | 3.54% |
$17,011 to $34,030 | $602.15 + 4.65% of the amount over $17,010 |
$34,031 to $374,600 | $1,393.58 + 5.3% of the amount over $34,030 |
More than $374,600 | $19,443.79 + 7.65% of the amount over $374,600 |
Wisconsin Income Tax Range: Married filing separately
Up to $8,510 | 3.54% |
$8,511 to $17,010 | $301.25 + 4.65% of the amount over $8,510 |
$17,011 to $187,300 | $696.50 + 5.3% of the amount over $17,010 |
More than $187,300 | $9,721.87 + 7.65% of the amount over $187,300 |
Wisconsin sales tax
Wisconsin's statewide sales tax is 5%. However, the average combined local and state tax rate is 5.43% (as of January 2023), according to the Tax Foundation.
Sales taxes will be much higher for some residents in 2024 when two Milwaukee sales tax increases become effective.
- Groceries are tax-exempt.
- Prescription drugs are tax-exempt.
- Diapers and feminine hygiene products are taxable.
How much are property taxes in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the average effective property tax rate is 1.73%, which is higher than in most other states.
Wisconsin property tax breaks for retirees
Wisconsin homeowners who are age 62 or older or have disabilities may qualify for a homestead credit without earned income. Homeowners under age 62 must have earned income to qualify. Income limitations apply.
Additionally, state residents 62 and older may apply for a property-tax-deferral loan of up to $3,525 through the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority. However, household income must not exceed $20,000.
Applications are also available to veterans, regardless of age.
Wisconsin gas tax (motor fuel)
Gasoline: 32.9¢ per gallon.
Diesel: 32.9¢ per gallon.
Wisconsin taxes on alcohol and tobacco
Cigarettes | $2.52 per pack |
Other tobacco products | 71% of manufacturer price |
Vapor products | $0.05 per ml |
Beer | $0.06 per gallon |
Wine | $0.25 per gallon |
Liquor | $3.25 per gallon |
Wisconsin estate and inheritance taxes
Wisconsin doesn't have an estate or an inheritance tax.
Related Content

Katelyn has more than 6 years’ experience working in tax and finance. While she specializes in tax content, Katelyn has also written for digital publications on topics including insurance, retirement and financial planning and has had financial advice commissioned by national print publications. She believes that knowledge is the key to success and enjoys helping others reach their goals by providing content that educates and informs.
-
Another Big IRS Tax Change for Online Sellers
Selling Online Just in time for the holidays, the IRS is delaying a significant tax 1099-K reporting requirement for 2023.
By Kelley R. Taylor Published
-
Many Mutual Funds Are Converting To ETFs: What To Know
Mutual fund conversions to an exchange-traded fund structure can save investors money and add convenience.
By Kim Clark Published
-
Another Big IRS Tax Change for Online Sellers
Selling Online Just in time for the holidays, the IRS is delaying a significant tax 1099-K reporting requirement for 2023.
By Kelley R. Taylor Published
-
Tax-Deductible Black Friday Deals for the Self-Employed
Black Friday Deals Some Black Friday deals can help the self-employed save on business expenses and taxes.
By Katelyn Washington Published
-
Did You Overpay for Thanksgiving Dinner?
Thanksgiving 2023 marks the second most expensive Thanksgiving dinner in history. But how much it cost depended on what you bought, where you live — and whether your state taxes groceries.
By Katelyn Washington Last updated
-
Most Expensive States for Retired Military Service Members
Military Retirement Veterans can keep more of their military retirement pay by avoiding these high-taxed, most expensive states for retired service members.
By Katelyn Washington Last updated
-
Max Your 2023 401(k) Contributions Now Before the Deadline
401(k) Contributions Year-end is the deadline for making max 401(k) contributions that can increase your savings for retirement and help lower your tax bill.
By Kelley R. Taylor Last updated
-
10 Worst States To Retire in if You Hate Paying Taxes
State Taxes Relatively high tax burdens make these places the worst states to retire.
By Katelyn Washington Last updated
-
Charitable Donations: What To Know About Scams and Taxes Before You Give
Donations Giving to a charity can make you feel good and lower your tax bill, but the IRS says to beware of fake charities.
By Katelyn Washington Last updated
-
Are I Bonds Taxable? 10 Common Situations
taxes Series I bonds are a popular investment that can also help you save on taxes, but the federal income tax consequences can be complex.
By Joy Taylor Last updated