Summer break is winding down, but the tax break is just beginning. This year, Florida's back-to-school sales tax holiday lasts for 10 days! And you don't have to have kids to cash in. 7's Lynn Martinez reports.
They say the only two things certain in life are death and taxes. From now through August 16th, Floridians are being granted a temporary break from the tax part. The Florida Retail Federation joined 7News via Skype to help count the 7 tips for saving… even without a student!
"If you don't have toddlers under your arm, they're not going to kick you out of the store," James Miller said.
#1: LOOK THE PART
First up, clothes under $100 are tax free! Belts, jeans, ties, shoes, even lingerie?! Yes, saving can be sexy. Whether you need new work out clothes or a new dress or suit for work– clearly the back-to-school bonanza is not just child's play.
Some of your best deals are going to be found in the electronics aisle.
#2: COMPUTE THIS
James Miller: "If you've been kinda sitting on the fence waiting to purchase something, some electronics, this is definitely the weekend to do it."
There is no tax on the first $750 of a qualified item, which means on a $1,000 laptop, you would save at least $45. Desktop computers, e-readers and tablets are also included.
#3: NEED BACKUP?
Even if you aren't in the market for a new computer, you won't run into technical difficulties finding ways to save. Web cams, printers, routers, speakers and external storage devices are tax exempt, too.
#4: BULK UP
At number four, if there are supplies you use regularly, like highlighters, pens and pencils, legal pads, you should consider buying in bulk to maximize savings.
#5: EXEMPTION EDUCATION
But know what's exempt, and what's not, before walking into the store. You may think printer paper, staplers, digital cameras, and cell phones are tax-free. You'd be wrong. So do your homework, pun intended.
#6: "VACATION, ALL I EVER WANTED"
At number six, plan ahead. Your ski vacation may be months away, but you can buy sweaters, coats, even ski suits– tax free now.
#7: SHOP SMART
And finally, don't buy something simply because it's tax-exempt, or you could end up taxing your own wallet.
James Miller: "Just because you're saving a little bit, I want people to make sure that they're getting something that they need."
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Back-To-School Sales Tax Holiday Items
http://dor.myflorida.com/dor/tips/pdf/tip15a01-05_full_list.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
http://dor.myflorida.com/dor/tips/pdf/tip15a01-05_taxpayers_faq.pdf