Editor’s Note: This blog is updated annually in July to reflect the dates for the current year’s tax-free holiday weekends.
It’s that time of year – Back to School – and that means shopping for school supplies.
Many states have designated days for tax-free shopping, and each has its own criteria for shopping. Typically, you can get clothes, supplies, backpacks, crayons, pencils, pens, erasers, lunch boxes, paper, notebooks, and sometimes computers – and pay no sales tax!
Be sure to take advantage of saving some money on clothing and school supplies.
Tax-free shopping
Here are the 2024 tax-free weekends for your state:
- Alabama – July 19-21
- Arkansas – August 3-4
- Georgia – No tax holiday
- Illinois – No tax holiday
- Indiana – No tax holiday
- Iowa – August 2-3
- Kentucky – No tax holiday
- Mississippi – July 26-27
- Missouri – August 2-4
- Oklahoma – August 2-4
- Tennessee – July 26-28
- Texas – August 9-11
5 tips for saving on back-to-school supplies
Don’t break the bank and shop smart with these tips on how you can make the most out of the tax-free holiday:
- Shop at home first
Check your drawers and closets and gather all your kids’ school items and clothes. Put them on a table and inventory what you need for this school year.
- Make a list – and stick to it
Before heading to the store, list everything you need and where you will buy it. You’ll save time and money! And only buy what you need!
- Look for coupons and deals
Go online to see if your stores have deals and coupons – clip away! Check the local newspaper for additional deals and shopping hours.
- Buy generic
Save a few more pennies by buying generic items instead of name brands. Plus, store brands can save you money.
- Compare prices
Get the best deal for everything you buy by carefully comparing the prices.
By following these tips, you can save money and make it go further. And you’ll be more apt to stick to your budget. Finally, if you can, go on the first day of the tax-free weekend so the store will be sufficiently stocked with plenty of items.
So, plan ahead and happy shopping. Here’s to a great school year for all the kids – and parents!
