Back-to-school season just got a little easier on the wallet.
Maryland’s annual Tax-Free Week kicks off Sunday, Aug. 10, offering shoppers a chance to skip the state’s six percent sales tax on qualifying clothing, footwear and backpacks. The promotion runs through Saturday, Aug. 16.
Here’s how it works: Any single item of clothing or footwear priced under $100 is exempt from state sales tax. So is the first $40 of any backpack purchase—whether you’re buying one or stocking up for the whole crew.
“As costs continue to go up, shopping during the sales tax holiday is a great way to keep money in the pockets of hardworking Marylanders and help their budgets go further,” said Comptroller Brooke Lierman in a statement. “I encourage everyone to shop in Maryland during the sales tax holiday, save money where you can, and support the local businesses that keep our state economy moving forward.”
The week-long holiday, which was established by state law in 2007, is designed to give families a break during the pricey back-to-school rush—and to encourage shopping closer to home.
“Shop Tax Free Week is more than a six percent discount,” said Cailey Locklair, president of the Maryland Retailers Alliance. “It’s an opportunity to support local businesses, ease the financial burden on families preparing for the school year, and keep hard-earned dollars circulating in our communities.”
With school supply lists looming and fall wardrobes in the works, now’s the perfect time to help the Baltimore economy by shopping local and saving a little money while at it.
For full details on eligible tax-free items, visit marylandtaxes.gov.
