As the back-to-school season approaches, Maryland shoppers are taking advantage of the state’s tax-free shopping week to save on essential items like clothes, shoes, and backpacks. With many school districts in Maryland set to resume classes in just two weeks, families are gearing up and stocking up on supplies to ensure a smooth transition back to school.
From now until Saturday, August 17, shoppers can enjoy a break from Maryland’s 6% sales tax on clothing items and shoes priced under $100. Additionally, the first $40 of a backpack purchase is also exempt from sales tax. This tax-free incentive has drawn in throngs of shoppers looking to save a few extra dollars as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
While the tax-free discount applies to clothing, shoes, and backpacks, it unfortunately does not extend to other school supplies. Some shoppers have expressed their wish for the savings to encompass a broader range of back-to-school essentials, citing the rising costs of items like notebook paper compared to previous years.
One mother of four, Keli Brown, shared her experience of the increasing expenses associated with back-to-school shopping. She mentioned that she spent over $250 on school supplies, more than double what she had spent just a few years ago. The rising costs of school supplies have put a strain on many families‘ budgets, prompting them to seek out ways to stretch their dollars further.
Some savvy shoppers, like Kendall Wilson, have been strategically shopping at discount retailers like Tanger Outlets in Oxon Hill to maximize their savings during the tax-free week. Wilson mentioned that he was able to snag a pair of Nike shoes for his brother at a significant discount, highlighting the value of combining retailer discounts with the tax-free savings.
Major retailers like Target in Oxon Hill have also been offering in-store savings on backpacks and clothes, allowing shoppers to stack additional discounts on top of the tax-free savings. This has made it even more enticing for families to shop for back-to-school essentials and take advantage of the limited-time tax break.
For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, there is still an opportunity to save on qualifying items that ship to a Maryland address before the Saturday deadline. This provides an alternative option for shoppers who want to avoid the crowds and shop from the comfort of their homes while still enjoying the tax-free benefits.
Overall, Maryland shoppers are making the most of the tax-free shopping week to alleviate some of the financial burden associated with back-to-school shopping. With the deadline fast approaching, now is the time to stock up on essentials and take advantage of the savings before they expire.