The SALTcast

Understanding the NOMAD States: A Sales Tax Guide

Picture this. You're strolling through the labyrinth of sales tax laws in the United States, and suddenly you come across five states that hit like a cool breeze on a hot summer day: the NOMAD states.


These states, devotedly referred to as NOMAD (New Hampshire, Oregon, Montana, Alaska, and Delaware), have something unique to offer—they don't impose any state sales tax. You read that right, no state sales tax. It's like a dream come true, giving you a reason to rest easy at night.


However, before you become too complacent, keep in mind that there are always nuances to consider when it comes to sales tax. While these NOMAD states may not impose state-wide sales tax, it's crucial to remember that the government still requires revenue to maintain smooth operations.


So, where does this revenue come from? The NOMAD states have their own compensatory methods for the lack of state sales tax revenue. They frequently depend on higher business, income, or excise taxes compared to states with a state sales tax. And then there are local jurisdictional sales tax nuances to be aware of.


To ensure clarity, let's delve a little deeper into these states and their unique tax structures.