On April 1, 2025, sales tax went up half a percent in Franklin County and in the parts of nearby counties that COTA serves. Voters approved the increase in November 2024 through Issue 47. The money funds LinkUS, a plan to add rapid bus lines, sidewalks, and bike paths across Central Ohio.
Better transit helps the region. It also means businesses pay more tax on big purchases, including office furniture. Here is what that means for your budget and how to plan for it.
What Is the Sales Tax Rate in Columbus?
The sales tax rate in Franklin County, which covers most of Columbus, is 8%. That rate combines the 5.75% Ohio state rate with county and COTA transit taxes. Parts of Columbus that sit in Fairfield County pay 7.75%.
Current Central Ohio Sales Tax Rates
| Area | Rate before April 1, 2025 | Current rate |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin County (all) | 7.5% | 8% |
| Delaware County, COTA area (parts of Columbus, Dublin, Westerville) | 7.5% | 8% |
| Union County, COTA area (parts of Dublin) | 7.5% | 8% |
| Fairfield County, COTA area (parts of Columbus, Reynoldsburg) | 7.25% | 7.75% |
| Licking County, COTA area (part of Reynoldsburg) | 7.75% | 8.25% |
Source: Ohio Department of Taxation. Rates can change each quarter, so check the Ohio Department of Taxation rate tables for the latest numbers.
How Much Does the Increase Add to an Office Furniture Order?
Half a percent sounds small. On a large order, it adds up.
- A $10,000 order now carries $50 more in tax.
- A $50,000 order now carries $250 more in tax.
- A $150,000 office buildout now carries $750 more in tax.
At the full 8% rate, a $50,000 order in Franklin County carries $4,000 in sales tax. That money could buy several more desks or a set of ergonomic chairs.
5 Smart Ways to Stretch Your Furniture Budget
- Build tax into your budget from day one. Add the full rate to every quote so the final invoice holds no surprises.
- Mix new and used furniture. Quality used office furniture costs far less than new, which lowers the price and the tax on it.
- Shop the specials. Our current specials offer extra savings on in-stock pieces.
- Sell your old furniture. Capital Choice buys used furniture based on quality, quantity, and current demand. That money can offset your new order.
- Plan before you buy. Our free 3D drawing shows exactly what fits, so you do not buy pieces you do not need.
Tax-Exempt? Tell Us Up Front
Nonprofits, schools, and other qualified groups may not owe sales tax on their purchases. If your organization holds an Ohio exemption certificate, send it to us before we invoice your order. Talk with your tax advisor if you are not sure whether you qualify.
Get the Most From Every Dollar
You cannot control the tax rate. You can control what you pay for furniture. Capital Choice offers new, used, and refurbished furniture for any budget, plus layout planning, delivery, and professional installation. Our Columbus warehouse keeps used furniture in stock, so it ships in days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax rate in Franklin County, Ohio?
The Franklin County sales tax rate is 8%. It rose from 7.5% on April 1, 2025, after voters approved the COTA LinkUS levy (Issue 47).
Why did Central Ohio sales tax go up?
Voters approved Issue 47 in November 2024. It added a permanent 0.5% sales tax to fund LinkUS, COTA's plan for rapid bus lines, sidewalks, and bike paths.
Does the COTA sales tax apply outside Franklin County?
Yes, in the parts of Delaware, Fairfield, Licking, and Union counties that fall inside COTA's service area. Areas outside COTA's district did not see the increase.
How can my business save on office furniture with higher sales tax?
Buy quality used furniture, shop in-stock specials, sell your old furniture back, and plan your layout first so you only buy what you need.
Let's Build Your Office Together
Want to make your furniture budget go further? Call Capital Choice at (614) 332-1828 or request a quote. Stop by our showroom at 1517 Alum Industrial Dr N, Columbus, OH 43209, weekdays from 9 to 5.
Have a question this did not answer?
Call 614.332.1828 and ask a person. We have been doing this for twenty years and we will give you a straight answer.