Can you claim both sales and use tax on federal income tax return, instead of state income tax?

Dick Maisenbacher: Many states levy separate taxes on phone service or utilities. Those are not deductible. If it's the general sales and use tax at the same rate then it's deductible.

Jesse Japak: It seems I should be able to claim the use tax on my truck lease, as it is taxed at the same state tax % rate as general sales tax...correct?According to Pub 17, the charge would have to equal atleast the state sales tax % to qualify.

Nell Dipiero: If it is actually a "sales tax," you can. If it is an excise tax, you cannot.

Dan Seen: The taxes you pay on the items you list do not fall into the category of "use taxes", so no you can't claim them.If you actually paid a use tax, then yes it could be deducted - that would be an amount that you paid directly to your state because you bought an item or items and didn't pay the sales tax due on them....Show more

Shaunta Paap: If you are a resident of a state which has state income tax, you can only claim st! ate income tax paid on your Federal 1040. If you are a resident of a state that has no state income tax, they you can claim a deduction for sales tax paid.