Medical cannabis offers relief for patients suffering from a range of conditions, but did you know that having a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts can also save you a lot of money? For patients who rely on cannabis for treatment, the tax differences between recreational and medical marijuana are significant. Let’s dive into the taxes associated with marijuana in Massachusetts and how obtaining a medical marijuana card can offer big financial advantages.
Recreational Marijuana Taxes in Massachusetts
For recreational marijuana users, the taxes are notably high. When purchasing cannabis recreationally in Massachusetts, consumers face the following taxes:
Excise Tax: 10.75%
Sales Tax: 7.25%
Municipal Tax: Up to 3%
This means that when you purchase recreational marijuana, you’re paying between 17% to 20% in total taxes. If you’re a regular consumer, these taxes can quickly add up, especially when purchasing high-end products or large quantities.
Medical Marijuana Taxes in Massachusetts
One of the biggest perks of holding a MMJ card Massachusetts is the 0% tax rate on all medical cannabis purchases. That’s right—patients with a medical marijuana card are entirely exempt from the excise, sales, and municipal taxes applied to recreational purchases. This allows patients to save a substantial amount of money, making it much more affordable to manage their medical needs.
Estimated Savings with a Medical Marijuana Card
With recreational cannabis taxes ranging from 17% to 20%, the savings from having a medical marijuana card can be substantial. On average, cardholders save upwards of 20% on every purchase. For regular users, this can translate into hundreds or even thousands of dollars saved annually, depending on the frequency and volume of your purchases.
For example:
$100 recreational purchase = $117 to $120 after taxes.
$100 medical purchase = exactly $100, with no added tax.
This price difference can have a significant impact, especially for patients who rely on cannabis as a part of their daily treatment routine.
Why Get a Medical Marijuana Card?
Aside from the financial savings, holding a Massachusetts medical marijuana card comes with other advantages:
Access to More Potent Products: Medical dispensaries often carry products with higher potency, designed for medical use.
Specialized Guidance: As a medical patient, you’ll receive personalized advice from knowledgeable staff to help you select the best products for your condition.
Conclusion: The Smart Choice for Patients
For patients in Massachusetts, obtaining a medical marijuana card is not only a way to ensure access to cannabis for medical purposes but also a smart financial decision. With zero taxes on medical marijuana, patients save upwards of 20% on every purchase. If you rely on cannabis for treatment, applying for a medical marijuana card is a simple process that offers substantial long-term savings.
