Back to school shopping in Hampton Roads will be a little easier starting tomorrow. This weekend is a tax free holiday for all back to school purchases. The tax free days are Friday, August 1 – Sunday, August 3. During this three-day period, purchases of qualifying school supplies selling for $20 or less per item, and purchases of qualifying clothing and footwear selling for $100 or less per item will be exempt from sales tax.
According to the National Retail Federation, last year parents spent an average of $634.78, and they’re expected to spend even more this year on back-to-school shopping. On average, their spending will go up 5 percent this year, to $669.28.
Computers are not included in this exemption.
A detailed list is available on Virginia’s web site at
http://www.tax.virginia.gov/documents/Sales%20Tax%20Holiday%20for%20Clothing%20and%20School%20Supplies%20-%20Lists%20of%20Exempt%20Items.pdf
While Hampton Roads offers some great back to school shopping, another popular area in Virginia is Tyson’s Corner. With over 300 specialty shops and restaurants, Tyson’s Corner is home to luxury stores like Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom and Urban Outfitters. Tyson’s Corner is located approximately 3 1/2 hours north of Hampton Roads. For more information, go to http://www.tysonscornercenter.com/.
