ANNAPOLIS — Shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of Maryland’s tax-free week, which begins Sunday, August 9, and runs through Saturday, August 15, 2015.
During tax-free week, any single, qualifying article of clothing or footwear priced $100 or less— regardless of how many purchased— will be exempt from the state’s six percent sales tax.
“Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week is a great opportunity to get deals on back-to-school clothes or to refresh a tired wardrobe,” Comptroller Franchot said. “During these tough economic times, having a break from the six percent sales tax on shoes and clothing can make a real difference for families, enabling them to save more of their hard-earned money. Retailers also benefit with a boost in revenue. The savings can really add up for families, putting more money in their pockets.”
“Back-to-school shopping is the second biggest shopping season for retailers,” said Maryland Retailers Association spokesperson Tom Saquella. “Tax-Free Week has become a welcomed opportunity for consumers to save on clothing and footwear as they prepare for the new school year, and also for adults looking to buy something from the new fall clothing lines. Tax-Free Week is a wonderful gift provided every year to Maryland taxpayers and you can count on Maryland retailers to do their part with great sales and promotions.”
Businesses selling items that are not eligible for inclusion in the tax-free week can still participate in “Shop Maryland.” Under “Sellers Privilege,” other unqualified merchandise can be sold tax-free but the retailer is responsible for paying the sales tax owed to the state.
For more information on qualifying items, visit the Comptroller of Maryland’s website: ww.marylandtaxes.com, e-mail taxhelp@comp.state.md.us or call 410-260-7980 in Central Maryland or toll-free at 1-800-MD-TAXES.