Sales tax holiday on school, hurricane prep items continues through Sunday
RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) - It's that time of year -- getting ready to go back to school. The sales are here, and so is a big sales tax break this weekend.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) estimates Americans will spend more than $75 billion on back to school shopping this year.
BBB president Tom Gallagher says now is a great time to stock up on all the items kids need for the school year.
"Take advantage of that. You can put it all together and come up with a pretty darn nice savings," said Gallagher.
This Friday through Sunday school supplies under $20 an item, and clothing for less than $100 an item will be tax free.
But before you spend, the BBB has some tips to keep in mind:
- Stick to a budget and a list.
- The BBB suggests while you don't want to overspend, it's not a bad idea to buy some items in bulk and dole them out over the year.
- Use a credit card, not a debit card, and keep all of your receipts.
"You're better off using a credit card than a debit card. You really are, because they have rights and protections," said Gallagher. "It's not so bad if we are buying paper or pencils or things like that, but if it's anything beyond that, we want to be sure that it's a reputable business."
In addition to school supplies, hurricane prep items like generators and chain saws are also tax free this weekend.
Makeup, handbags, and computers are not tax exempt.
- Click here for a full list of items that are tax free this weekend
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