Boston, MA

It’s that *other* highly anticipated time of the year (or again maybe it’s just me), but Tax-Free Weekend in Massachusetts is almost here! On August 11th and 12th, you can buy most things without the 5% sales tax, but according to Boston.com, here are some basic guidelines:

• The Massachusetts 5 percent sales tax will be waived for most goods that cost $2,500 or less.
• The sales tax is exempt for tangible personal property bought for personal use only.
• Motor vehicles, meals, gas, and tobacco products remain taxable.
• Airline tickets and sporting events are considered services, and thus remain taxable.
• Bundled goods — such as computer packages that include computer, monitor, and printer — only qualify for the tax exemption if the price of the entire bundle is less than $2,500.
• Prior sales and layaway items do not qualify.
• If an article of clothing exceeds $2,500, you receive a $175 deduction on the sales tax. For example, if you buy a dress for $3,000, you pay sales tax on $2,825.
• For coupon items, the sales tax applies only if the post-deduction amount is more than $2,500. For coupons applied to total purchases, the discount is pro-rated for each item sold.
• Internet orders paid for Aug. 12-13 are exempt.

Since we here in Massachusetts typically enjoy no sales tax on clothing all year round anyway, take advantage of this weekend the best by buying those big purchases like plasma TVs, home appliances, computers, furniture, and even jewelry. With the end of summer sales in full effect, you can really make a killing if you plan it right! It’s like Christmas in Jul…errr, August!

Boston, Massachusetts, tax free weekend, shopping, sales, retail, sales tax