As of April 2022, cannabis sales have become legal for recreational and medical use for anyone 21 years and older in New Jersey. Most proponents of legalization tout the benefits of a strong revenue stream from the state and local taxes on legal weed and marijuana products. So what is the tax on cannabis in NJ?
If you are someone who is selling or purchasing cannabis, know these three cannabis taxes in New Jersey that may affect the transaction.
Cannabis cultivators must charge a Social Equity Excise Fee for the sale or transfer of recreational cannabis. The Social Equity Excise Fee is based on the state’s average retail price of consumable cannabis. For 2022, the fee is $1.10 per ounce. However, the state can change that fee every year.
As of January 1, 2023, the Social Equity Excise Fee (SEEF) increases to $1.52 per ounce of cannabis.
Like most other things in the state of New Jersey, sales of cannabis are subject to sales tax. The current sales tax rate is 6.625%. If you are buying recreational cannabis, expect to pay sales tax. However, if you are buying cannabis for medical purposes, there is no longer a sales tax. Medical cannabis is tax-free as of July 1, 2022.
Municipalities in New Jersey can charge a transfer tax of up to 2% on the sale of recreational cannabis or similar products. Municipalities can also charge a user tax on top of the transfer tax. These taxes can vary from town to town so your best bet is to check with your local municipality.
Running a cannabis business in the state of New Jersey can be uniquely challenging. It is important to have a trusted and knowledgeable CPA by your side to guide you. Don’t hesitate to contact an Alloy Silverstein advisor today.
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Ren III provides tax, accounting, and advisory services to a broad range of clients, with a specialty for manufacturers, title insurance companies, and professional service providers.
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