Should Illinois Eliminate the State Grocery Tax?

The state of Illinois imposes a “Retailer’s Occupation Tax” (ROT), or sales tax, of 6.25% on general merchandise and 1% on qualifying food, drugs, and medical appliances.1 The 1% tax is charged on most food items for,home consumption, or “food at home” (FAH) and is often referred to as a “grocery tax.” The state grocery tax plays a role in local government finance because a portion of state receipts are passed through to municipalities. Illinois is among 13 states that impose a grocery tax.