The D.C. region’s annual sales tax holiday is here, and this year, there is a focus on helping small businesses struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.
Maryland
When: Aug. 9-15.
Qualifying items: Clothing and footwear items priced at $100 or less are exempt, regardless of how many items are purchased at the same time.
Additionally, the first $40 of any book bag or backpack is exempt, though any amount over the initial $40 is taxable.
Accessories like jewelry, watches, ties and handbags are not exempt.
See the full list of items and price restrictions online.
Virginia
When: Aug. 7-9.
Qualifying items: School supplies, clothing, footwear, hurricane and emergency preparedness items as well as Energy Star and WaterSense products.
School supplies need to be $20 or less per item. Clothing needs to be $100 or less per item.
For hurricane and emergency prep items:
- Portable generators — $1,000 or less per item.
- Gas-powered chain saws — $350 or less per item.
- Chainsaw accessories — $60 or less per item.
- Other specified hurricane preparedness items — $60 or less per item.
Energy Star and WaterSense products need to be $2,500 or less per item.
See the full list of items and price restrictions online.
DC
D.C. did away with its sales tax holiday in 2010.
WTOP’s Valerie Bonk contributed to this report.