A percent-off tag means you pay less than the listed original price by a stated share of that price. The percent is applied to the original (unless a store says otherwise).
Core idea
Discount = original × (percent ÷ 100)
Sale price = original − discount
Sample
$100 · 20% off → save $20.00, sale $80.00. Open sample
Related
Frequently asked questions
How does a percent-off discount work?
Multiply the original price by the discount percent to get savings, then subtract to get the sale price.
Sample 20% off $100?
Save about $20.00; sale about $80.00.
Sources linked above include U.S. government materials (for example CFPB, FDIC, NCUA, BLS, IRS) where noted. Sample math uses only labeled Nestfigure assumptions—not bank quotes, job offers, or personalized advice. Last reviewed: August 9, 2026.