Tax Free Weekend Begins Today!

As much as we hate to say it, summer will not last forever. School is just around the corner for many in the area, and it is time to once again go shopping for those necessary supplies and other back to school items. There is a possible bright spot in this dreadful time of the year: tax free weekend! Tax free weekend for the state of Tennessee begins today – Friday, July 28, beginning at 12:01 a.m. and running through Sunday, July 30, at 11:59 p.m.

What is included in the tax exemption holiday? All merchants who sell items in the state of Tennessee are required to participate. The following items are included in the holiday: clothing and school supplies $100 or less, and computers that are $1500 or less will be tax free.

This means that in that almost everything in the category of clothing applies, from aerobic clothing, to camping clothing, bras, belts, bathing suits, and countless other articles are tax free. Items for infants, including diapers, wipes, and baby clothes, are also tax exempt. School supplies, including the usual papers, pens, binders, and backpacks, are up for grabs. Technology, including computers, notebooks, tablets, and laptops, are also on the table for being tax free.

What about online shopping? The rules for online shopping are a bit more blurred. However, there is a simple rule that shoppers can keep in mind to help them know if they will have to pay taxes on their items or not. Items like those above that qualify for a tax exemption are sales tax free IF your order completely pays for the item and the retailer accepts it during the holiday weekend.

If the order and payment is made before the holiday, even if the delivery takes place on the holiday, it would not count in the exemption. It is best to order and make payments on items that you know are tax exempt during the tax free weekend, even if they aren’t going to be delivered until after the holiday. This way you make sure that you get the tax exemption, and you know for a fact that it counts on your order.

Experts also have some tips for getting the most bang for your buck out of the weekend. It is suggested that shoppers take their time looking around at different stores in person and online before seriously considering making any real purchases. Don’t jump at purchases and overspend in the excitement. Shoppers can also find out the best prices for the items that they are looking to purchase. Look around and take your time to ensure you get the absolute best deal possible. Many stores run large discounts over the weekend, even if the item isn’t on “the list.”

Tax free weekend is already heavily discounted, but shoppers might want to make the most of their experience with coupons. You can look online, in printed store ads, or sign up for coupons to your favorite stores. Other advice includes avoiding items that you don’t really need but are considering buying just for the tax free holiday. Most importantly, experts remind consumers to make all of their buying choices with the most valuable tool they have: their common sense. If something seems unnecessary or just wrong, don’t buy it, plain and simple. Make the best decision for you and your family this tax free weekend.