My colleague Jill Rosen wrote this week that retailers are pushing back-to-school shopping in July, far earlier than usual.
But if you want to save sales tax – or 6 percent on certain purchases – do your back-to-school or other shopping between August 14 and the 20th. Maryland sales tax won’t be assessed on apparel and footwear that is $100 or less. Accessories will be taxed no matter what the price.
Maryland’s comptroller posts a list online of items eligible for the tax holiday. This includes ear muffs, capes, cowboy boots, bowling shirts, martial arts attire and garters. (Exactly what was on my shopping list!)