As summer winds down, families across the country are gearing up for the start of a new school year. This year, don’t miss out on the opportunity to save big during back-to-school tax-free weekends. These special events can save parents a bundle on school supplies, clothing, and other essentials for their children’s education.
What are Back-to-School Tax-Free Weekends?
Back-to-school tax-free weekends are statewide events that temporarily suspend sales tax on eligible items related to education. They typically occur in late July or early August and are designed to help families save money as they prepare for the new school year. The specific dates and details of these tax-free holidays may vary depending on your state, so be sure to research your local regulations before making purchases.
Which Items Are Eligible for Tax-Free Savings?
The list of tax-free items may vary from state to state, but most commonly include:
1. Clothing: A majority of states offer tax-free savings on clothing items priced under a certain threshold (usually between $50 and $100). This can include uniforms, shoes, belts, and even some sports equipment.
2. School Supplies: Notebooks, binders, pencils, pens, calculators, and other classroom essentials are usually included in back-to-school tax-free events.
3. Computers and Electronics: Many states offer tax-free deals on computers, laptops, tablets, and even printers specifically for educational use.
4. Books: Some states extend their tax-free offers to include books purchased for educational purposes.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Back-to-School Tax-Free Weekend
1. Prepare a List: Before hitting the stores, create a list of everything your child will need for the upcoming school year. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t miss any essential items during your shopping spree.
2. Do Your Research: Find out the specific dates and times of your state’s back-to-school tax-free event by checking the official state website or local news sources. Be sure to note which items qualify for tax-free savings and any price restrictions that may apply.
3. Shop Early: Tax-free weekends can attract large crowds, leading to shortages in supplies and popular items. Start shopping early in the day to give yourself the best chance of finding everything on your list.
4. Compare Prices: Don’t assume that a tax-free weekend will automatically offer you the best deal on your purchases. Compare prices at different stores to ensure you’re getting the most for your money.
5. Shop Online: Some states extend their tax-free weekends to include online sales, allowing you to avoid crowded stores and score deals from the comfort of your own home.
A back-to-school tax-free weekend can be a lifesaver for parents working within a budget, so mark your calendars and prepare for a successful shopping excursion this summer!
