Getting the Most Savings From Texas Tax-Free Weekend
It’s the weekend many parents eagerly await. This year, Texas Tax-free Weekend will be August 17-19. Texas shoppers will not have to pay sales tax on most clothing, footwear, school supplies and back packs priced under $100 – in person or online. Generally, you save $8 on every $100 you spend for those items. Lay-away plans can be used to take advantage of the sales tax holiday.
I have not always been a big fan of the tax holiday, because I don’t think it offers that much savings on its own, and people often overlook back-to-school sales held earlier in the summer so they can save on sales tax in August. I have already purchased all of my son’s back-to-school items by taking advantage of great online deals and promotional codes, where I didn’t have to pay tax or shipping.
If you are waiting for the tax holiday to do the bulk of your shopping, here are some tips to help you get the best deals.
Shop Ahead of Time
If you will be shopping online, look for advanced sale ads online the week before the tax holiday. Many stores will post them like they do for black Friday. Put the stuff you want in your online shopping cart and save it so you just have to check out when the clock strikes midnight on August 17. If you wait much longer, many of your items could be out of stock.
If you will be shopping in person, go to those stores several days in advance, find your items and hide them behind other things. Get to the store as early as you can on the 17th to locate your “stash” before others do.
Use Promotional Discounts on Already Discounted Merchandise
I spent less than $300 on a pair of Nikes, a pair of Asics and 15 clothing items for my son, because of an online promotional code that applied to all merchandise, including sale items. We’re talking polo shirts and nice quality shorts as low as $3 each. Take advantage of those promotions.
Do Your Homework
Don’t buy something you don’t need just because it’s a tax-free item – especially if it’s not on sale. If you buy something for $50, you’re only saving about $4. If that item goes on sale the week after, you could save even more. Do as much comparison shopping as possible and only buy those items that are bargains.
Know Which Items Qualify for the Tax Break
Just because it’s a school supply item sold in a store, doesn’t mean it qualifies as tax-free. Know what qualifies before you get to the check-out. Here are some links to help you.
Qualifying School Supplies
Qualifying Clothing
Also, be sensible. If you see an unbelievable sale somewhere before Texas Tax-Free Weekend, don’t wait just to save $8. You may be saving a whole lot more by shopping early.
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