Shoppers in Maryland and Virginia are set to benefit from annual sales tax holidays, allowing them to make specific purchases without incurring state and, in some cases, local sales taxes.
In Virginia, the sales tax holiday is scheduled from August 1 to August 3 this year. Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday and concluding at 11:59 p.m. on the following Sunday, shoppers can take advantage of tax exemptions on qualifying school supplies, clothing, footwear, and items for hurricane and emergency preparedness. Key exemptions include school supplies priced at $20 or less and clothing and footwear priced at $100 or less. Additionally, specific hurricane preparedness items and Energy Star™ and WaterSense™ products up to $2,500 can also be purchased tax-free.
Maryland’s sales tax holiday is notably longer, running from August 10 to August 16, allowing shoppers an entire week of tax-free shopping. The Comptroller of Maryland highlights that customers can purchase clothing and footwear up to $100 per item and backpacks priced at $40 or less. The holiday also includes various Energy Star products such as air conditioners, washers and dryers, and solar water heaters among other items, offering significant savings.
Both states encourage residents to take advantage of these tax holidays, particularly for back-to-school shopping, emphasizing the opportunity for significant savings on essential items. As consumers prepare for the upcoming school year, these events not only relieve financial strain but also promote energy efficiency and preparedness.