Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kansas—are excited about the upcoming tax-free weekend. This event allows families to stock up on necessary supplies without the added burden of sales tax, making it easier to manage back-to-school expenses. Here’s everything you need to know about the tax-free weekend in each state.
Missouri: Know Before You Go
Missouri’s sales tax holiday is a great chance to save, but not all cities are participating. In some areas, local city taxes will still apply to qualifying items, even though state sales tax is waived. Here’s a list of cities in Missouri that have opted out of the tax holiday:
- Branson
- Carl Junction
- Carthage
- Cassville
- Joplin
- Monett
- Mount Vernon
- Noel
- Neosho
Oklahoma: Mark Your Calendars
Oklahoma’s Sales Tax Holiday runs from August 2 to August 4, 2024. During this weekend, retailers are prohibited from charging state sales tax on items that qualify for tax exemption. This means families can purchase necessary school supplies, clothing, and other essentials without worrying about additional costs. Be sure to check with local retailers for specific details on what items are eligible for tax exemption.
Arkansas: Statewide Savings
In Arkansas, the tax-free weekend is scheduled for August 3-4, 2024. All retailers in the state are required to participate in this event. They cannot charge tax on items that are legally tax-exempt during the Sales Tax Holiday. This is a great opportunity for shoppers to save on back-to-school supplies, clothing, and more.
For an itemized list of items eligible for the tax exemption, click here. If you have questions about the tax holiday, you can find answers to common queries here.
Kansas: Local Savings Opportunities
Unlike the other three states, Kansas does not have a statewide sales tax holiday. However, many cities in Kansas, such as Fort Scott, organize their own sales events to help shoppers save on back-to-school items. If you’re in Kansas, it’s a good idea to reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce to find out if there are any special sales planned in your area. Local retailers may offer discounts or promotions to help families during this busy shopping season.
Tips for Smart Shopping
- Make a List: Before you head out shopping, create a list of all the school supplies and clothing items your children need. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
- Compare Prices: While the tax-free weekend offers savings on sales tax, prices can still vary between stores. Check out different retailers to find the best deals on the items you need.
- Stay Informed: Follow local news and social media pages for updates on special events or promotions happening in your area during the tax-free weekend. Some stores may offer additional discounts or rewards for shoppers.
- Shop Early: To get the best selection of items, consider shopping early in the weekend. Stores can quickly run out of popular items, so heading out early will help ensure you find everything on your list.
- Take Advantage of Online Shopping: Many retailers will also offer online shopping options during the tax-free weekend. Check if your favorite stores have online sales to save time and money.
Read More: 20 New Homes Coming to NE Oklahoma with Zero Percent Interest Loans from State Program!
Final Thoughts
The back-to-school tax-free weekend is an exciting time for families across Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kansas. With the potential for significant savings, it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on essential supplies for the upcoming school year. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, be sure to take advantage of the tax exemptions and special sales available in your area.