An excise tax is a tax imposed on the manufacture, sale, or use of goods—such as cigarettes, fuel, or alcohol—or on an occupation—such as a license tax or an attorney occupation tax—or on an activity such as gambling or betting.
Excise taxes may be ad valorem (calculated by percentage) or specific (calculated per unit).
In Alaska (AK), excise taxes are levied on certain goods and activities. For example, Alaska imposes an excise tax on tobacco products, motor fuel, and alcoholic beverages. The state does not have a statewide sales tax or personal income tax, which makes excise taxes a more significant source of revenue. The excise tax on tobacco is specific, meaning it is a set amount per unit, such as per pack of cigarettes. The alcohol excise tax is also specific and varies depending on the type of alcoholic beverage. Additionally, Alaska imposes a motor fuel tax, which is specific and is charged per gallon. There is no general occupation tax for attorneys or other professions at the state level in Alaska. However, some local jurisdictions may have their own regulations and taxes on occupations or activities such as gambling or betting. It's important to note that excise tax rates and regulations can change, so for the most current information, individuals and businesses should consult with an attorney or the Alaska Department of Revenue.