Retail sales Tax Table 19.1 shows tax revenue collected from various sales taxes Federal government levies no general sales tax. but does tax motor fuel alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and some other commodities Large majority of states have sales tax, with rates between 2.9% and 7.25%4 Retail Sales Tax • Table 19.1 shows tax revenue collected from various sales taxes. • Federal government levies no general sales tax, but does tax motor fuel, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and some other commodities. • Large majority of states have sales tax, with rates between 2.9% and 7.25%