7 Days Of

Maryland Tax-Free Week Returns August 9 Through 15

Maryland shoppers can save on back-to-school clothing and footwear during Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week, which runs from Sunday, August 9, through Saturday, August 15.

During the week, qualifying clothing and footwear priced at $100 or less per item will be exempt from Maryland’s 6% sales tax. The first $40 of the purchase price of a backpack or bookbag will also be tax-free.

What Qualifies for the Tax Exemption

The exemption applies to eligible clothing and footwear when each individual item costs $100 or less. A shopper may purchase multiple qualifying items in the same transaction, provided each item meets the price limit.

Typical qualifying purchases include shirts, pants, dresses, coats, school uniforms, shoes, sneakers, socks and other wearable clothing.

The exemption is based on the price of each item rather than the total purchase. For example, several qualifying items may be purchased in one transaction even when the combined bill exceeds $100.

Backpacks Receive a Partial Exemption

Backpacks and bookbags are treated differently from clothing and footwear. Only the first $40 of the purchase price is exempt from sales tax, with tax charged on any amount above $40.

Most other accessories do not qualify. Items such as jewelry, watches, handbags, umbrellas, scarves, ties, headbands and belt buckles remain taxable during the week.

Shoppers Encouraged to Support Maryland Businesses

The Comptroller of Maryland is encouraging residents to shop at locally owned and Maryland-based retailers during Tax-Free Week.

State officials said purchases made at local businesses support neighborhood jobs and help strengthen local economies.

Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week is held annually from the second Sunday in August through the following Saturday.

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