ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Sales and use taxes in California

Okay, so imagine you want to buy a toy from the store. When you buy the toy, the store has to charge you some extra money called sales tax. This sales tax is like a little bit extra money you pay to the government for buying things. The money from the sales tax goes to the government to help pay for things like roads, schools, and parks.

Now, let's say you live in California. In California, they have something called a sales and use tax. The sales tax is the extra money you pay when you buy something in a store. The use tax is like a sales tax but instead of paying it to the store when you buy something, you pay it directly to the government when you use something. For example, if you buy something online from another state and it doesn't charge you sales tax, you still have to pay use tax to the California government when you use that thing.

The sales and use tax rates in California can vary by city and county. So, depending on where you live, you might have to pay a different sales and use tax rate. It's important to make sure you're paying the right amount of sales and use tax so you don't get in trouble with the government.

In summary, sales and use taxes in California are just a little bit extra money you pay when you buy or use things. This money helps the government pay for important things like roads and schools. The rates can vary by where you live, so make sure you pay the right amount.