2024 Tax Free Weekends
20 Aug 2024
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Summer is here, and so are the highly anticipated tax-free weekends! These special periods allow you to shop for back-to-school items, disaster preparedness supplies, and more without paying state sales tax. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of these savings opportunities.
What is a Tax-Free Weekend?
A tax-free weekend is a limited period during which certain items are exempt from state sales tax. The eligible products often include clothing, school supplies, computers, and more, usually with specific price caps. While not all states participate, many do, especially during the summer months.
When is My Tax-Free Weekend?
Tax-Free Weekends 2024
| State | Type | Dates | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Annual Back to School Holiday | July 19-21 | Clothing ($100 or less); computers ($750 or less); school supplies ($50 or less); books ($30 or less) |
| Arkansas | Annual Back to School Holiday | August 3-4 | Clothing and footwear (less than $100); clothing accessories and equipment (less than $50); school supplies, art supplies, and instructional materials |
| Florida | Freedom Month Sales Tax Holiday | July 1-31 | Admissions to live events and shows; electric scooters ($500 or less); boating, camping, and fishing supplies |
| Iowa | Annual Back to School Holiday | August 2-3 | Clothing and footwear, excluding accessories (less than $100) |
| Louisiana | Second Amendment Weekend Holiday | September 6-8 | Firearms, ammunition, and hunting supplies, including archery items, hunting apparel, accessories, and safety equipment |
| Maryland | Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week | August 11-17 | Clothing and footwear, excluding accessories ($100 or less) |
| Mississippi | Annual Back to School Holiday | July 26-28 | Clothing and footwear (less than $100); school supplies (less than $100); computers ($1,500 or less) |
| Texas | Annual Back to School Holiday | August 9-11 | Clothing and footwear (less than $100, excluding accessories); backpacks for elementary and secondary students; most school supplies (less than $100) |
| Virginia | 3-Day Sales Tax Holiday | August 2-4 | School supplies ($20 or less); clothing and footwear ($100 or less); portable generators ($1,000 or less); gas-powered chainsaws ($350 or less) |
For a full list of dates and details, please refer to your state’s taxation and revenue website or local news outlets.
Can I Shop Online During Tax-Free Weekends?
Yes, many online retailers honor state tax holidays. However, local rules can affect eligibility. For example, Florida includes shipping charges in the item's cost, which might impact the tax exemption.
Tips for Maximizing Savings
1. Plan Ahead: Create a shopping list to avoid impulse purchases and ensure you get everything you need within the tax-free period.
2. Set Calendar Reminders: These weekends can sneak up on you, so mark your calendar.
3. Know Your State's Rules: Price caps and eligible items vary by state. For instance, Florida has a $1,500 limit on tax-free computers, while West Virginia's cap is $500.
4. Shop Sales: Combine store discounts with tax holidays for maximum savings.
Ready to Save?
Whether you’re preparing for the upcoming school year or planning for emergencies, tax-free weekends are a great way to stretch your dollars further. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to save!
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