If I live in Illinois and itemize deductions can I claim sales tax vs. claiming state income tax on my federal return? I did not make any large purchases. We moved (bought) a house and between the purchase of furniture, carpet etc. at the new house and updating the old residence to sell, our tax on purchases outweighs the income tax we incurred. We were told by an accountant that in Illinois unless we made a large purchase it doesn't matter. Sales tax can not be claimed. Is this true?