As Marylanders head into August with blazing temperatures and the anticipation of back-to-school hecticness, there’s one special week this month to help consumers get the clothes and supplies they need.
From August 13-19, Marylanders can avoid the state’s 6% sales tax on qualifying clothing and footwear under $100 and get the first $40 of any backpack purchase tax-free, according to the Maryland Comptroller.
“Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week is an important opportunity for Marylanders, particularly families, to save some money while doing their back-to-school shopping,” Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman said in a release. “The cost of new clothes and backpacks for families of any size can add up quickly.”
According to the Comptroller, here are a few items that qualify during the tax-free week:
- Sweaters, Jackets, and Shirts
- Pants/Jeans
- Underwear
- Belts
- Shoes and boots
While the tax-free week is known for back-to-school savings, Marylanders of all ages can also benefit from the holiday. Consumers can also find themselves exempt from the 6% tax on items such as adult and baby diapers, costumes, prom and bridal dresses, bathrobes, and non-commercial dry-cleaning services.
“Small businesses make up the backbone of our communities, providing neighborhood stabilization, tax revenue for the things we care about, and philanthropy for local organizations,” said Cailey Locklair, President of the Maryland Retailers Association, in a statement. “Marylanders can save money and support their community during Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week by checking out their nearest retailers and shopping locally.”
A complete list of what is and isn’t eligible for tax exemption can be found here, and more information about the tax-free week can be found here.
