Planning to shop in Chicago and fly out of O’Hare? This guide explains how U.S. sales tax works (and why there’s no VAT refund), where to find duty-free at ORD, what to expect with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and a step-by-step checklist to avoid surprises on departure day.
Quick Facts
- No VAT refunds in the U.S.
- Chicago sales tax ~10.25% (varies by item/location)
- Duty-free shopping after security in Terminal 5
- Hours vary by flight schedule — check on the day
What Is U.S. Sales Tax & Can Tourists Get a Refund?
Unlike VAT in many countries, the U.S. uses sales tax that’s added at checkout and varies by location. In Chicago, general merchandise is typically taxed around 10.25% (combined state, county, city and transit authority rates). As a rule, the United States does not offer VAT/sales-tax refunds to foreign visitors. Some states have limited exceptions, but Illinois/Chicago does not.
Sales Tax Basics (Chicago/Illinois)
- Chicago combined sales tax is generally about 10.25% on most retail goods.
- Rates can differ by category and location; totals are calculated at the register.
- Prices on shelves may be shown before tax; the tax adds at checkout.
No Tourist VAT Refunds
- No export stamp or airport VAT desk at ORD—refunds aren’t part of the U.S. system.
- Some U.S. states have niche programs, but not Illinois.
- For big purchases, ask retailers about shipping options (tax rules can depend on destination).
Key takeaway: The U.S. doesn’t run a VAT-refund model. In Chicago you generally pay sales tax on local purchases; duty-free is available for eligible goods after security in Terminal 5.
How To Shop Tax-Smart at O’Hare
- In the city: Expect sales tax at checkout. Keep receipts for warranty/returns.
- Flying internationally via T5: Do your duty-free shopping after security in Terminal 5 (Concourse M) for categories like fragrance, cosmetics, liquor and tobacco.
- Know your destination rules: Check the allowances for the country you’re entering. For U.S. residents returning later, CBP personal exemptions typically start at $800.
- Liquids in transit: Duty-free liquids are sold in STEBs; if you have onward connections, check security rules at your connecting airport.
- When in doubt: Ask staff at the store or your airline—hours and gate areas can shift with schedules.
Duty-Free Locations & Hours at ORD
Duty-free shopping is centered in the International Terminal (T5). Hours can vary by flight schedule—always check on the day of travel.
Duty-Free Stores (Terminal 5)
| Store | Terminal | Area & Gate | Typical Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dufry / Chicago Duty Free | Terminal 5 | Concourse M, near Gate M20 | ~09:30–21:30 (daily) | After security; selection includes beauty, liquor, tobacco, confectionery. |
Where is Customs (CBP)?
- CBP primarily processes arrivals into the U.S. at ORD.
- Departing from Chicago doesn’t involve an export stamp for VAT.
- If you’re connecting in another country, follow that country’s customs/security rules.
Duty-Free vs Tax-Free
- Duty-free: Goods sold without certain local duties/taxes in international zones (e.g., T5 after security).
- Tax-free (VAT refund): Not a U.S. system; there’s no VAT and no airport VAT refund at ORD.
Time-Saving Tips & Common Mistakes
- Shop airside for duty-free. The main stores are after security in T5; landside options aren’t duty-free.
- Check hours. Early/late flights may mean limited opening times; ask at the gate area.
- Know allowances. Verify your destination’s limits (and CBP rules if you’ll re-enter the U.S. on a later trip).
- Liquids & connections. If you connect elsewhere, keep duty-free liquids sealed and confirm local screening rules.
- Receipts & warranties. Keep proof of purchase, especially for electronics and luxury goods.
Pre-Departure Checklist
- Passport and boarding pass handy for airside shopping
- Know your destination’s customs allowances
- Plan 10–15 extra minutes in T5 for duty-free browsing
- Keep receipts; leave electronics accessible if security requests inspection