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Last Updated: Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 06:31 PM
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NC sales, alcohol, cigarette taxes now higher

You'll have to pay a little more in North Carolina the next time you purchase a computer or clothing, a pack of cigarettes or a bottle of wine.

You'll have to pay a little more in North Carolina the next time you purchase a computer or clothing, a pack of cigarettes or a bottle of wine.

New laws took effect Tuesday raising the sales tax rate on most goods by one penny and increasing excise taxes on tobacco products, beer, wine and liquor.

Democratic lawmakers and Gov. Beverly Perdue said they had no choice but to raise the taxes to close a budget gap. Senate Republican Leader Phil Berger says the higher taxes will delay the state's economic recovery.

Consumers in 91 counties now pay a combined sales tax rate of 7.75 percent. Nine other counties pay slightly more. The changes don't apply to food.

The cigarette tax is now 45 cents a pack.