SACRAMENTO – The statewide sales and use tax rate will increase one quarter of one percent (0.25%) from 7.25 percent to 7.50 percent on Jan. 1, 2013.

This rate increase was approved by California voters when they approved Proposition 30 on Nov. 6.

Among other things, Proposition 30 increases the statewide sales and use tax rate for four years – Jan. 1, 2013, through Dec. 31, 2016.

Across California, the sales and use tax rate will range from 7.5 percent to 10 percent because in some cities and counties, voter-approved district taxes are added to the statewide base rate.

California sales tax generally applies to retail sales of goods and merchandise except those sales specifically exempted by law.

“Use tax” is the same rate as the sales tax and generally applies to the storage, use, or other consumption of goods in California purchased from retailers in transactions not subject to the sales tax.

Use tax may also apply to purchases shipped to California consumers from other states, including purchases by mail order, telephone, or Internet.

The sales and use tax rate increase does not apply to purchases of gasoline. However, the sales and use tax rate increase does apply to purchases of diesel fuel.

For updates on the latest changes, retailers should check the BOE Web site, www.boe.ca.gov , or call the BOE Taxpayer Information Section at 1-800-400-7115 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific Time).