As the back-to-school season approaches, many families are gearing up for the annual ritual of shopping for school supplies and electronics. However, if you’re looking to save some money on these essential items, you may want to check if your state is participating in a sales tax holiday. These tax-free events, combined with back-to-school deals and sales, can provide some relief on your back-to-school shopping expenses.
This year, 16 US states are holding tax-free weekends, with many of these events taking place this weekend. Each state has its own list of items eligible for tax-free shopping, but most states offer discounts on essentials like clothing and school supplies, as well as big-ticket items like laptops.
States like Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia are all participating in sales tax holidays this year. These events typically exempt items like clothing, school supplies, computers, and other back-to-school essentials from sales tax for a limited time.
The first weekend in August is a popular time for sales tax holidays, with nine states offering exemptions during that time. Fourteen states in total host sales tax holidays that run in August, providing families with an opportunity to save money on their back-to-school shopping.
During a sales tax holiday, certain eligible items are exempt from sales tax, allowing consumers to save money on their purchases. Most states that participate in tax holidays hold events in the summer, aligning with back-to-school shopping. Items like laptops, clothing, school supplies, and accessories are commonly included in these tax-free events.
While sales tax holidays can help you save money, it’s important to stick to a budget and do your research on back-to-school deals to ensure you’re getting the best prices. Some stores may offer lower prices during sales than you would receive by paying full price during a tax holiday, so it’s essential to compare prices and shop smartly.
During a sales tax holiday, online purchases made by state residents are also tax-free, including purchases from large online retailers like Amazon. However, rules for sales tax holidays vary by state, so it’s important to follow your state’s guidelines for qualifying items and dollar limits.
In conclusion, sales tax holidays can provide a valuable opportunity for families to save money on back-to-school shopping. By taking advantage of these tax-free events, along with back-to-school deals and sales, you can make the most of your budget and ensure you’re prepared for the upcoming school year.