Know What is Tax Free
Knowing what kind of merchandise and how much you can spend on specific merchandise that is tax-free in your state will help you organize your list of items to buy and avoid disappointment in the checkout line. Print the state list out and bring it with you in case you run into an uninformed store cashier.Compare Prices
- There are several resources for comparing prices before you head out to the stores.
- Check online at price-comparison sites such as Pricegrabber.com.
- Look at your local stores web sites for advertised specials.
- Check your local mall's web site for advertised and last minute specials.
- Check the newspaper and individual store flyers.
- Call the stores and ask if they are offering specials during the tax-free days.
- Look online for printable coupons for your local stores.
Stay Focused - Make a List
Make a list in advance of the main items you plan on buying and what stores you plan to shop in to find the items. This will help you avoid bouncing from store to store and running out of time or energy to get those items which you really need.Budget Your Money
Tax-free days are fun and we tend to get caught up in the hype and overspend. If you have a basic budget to work with, this will help you avoid buying more than you really need just because the items are tax-exempt.Bring Your Ads
Many stores will match competitors advertised prices on the same merchandise. If you have an advertisement with you or a coupon to show to the store employee's, they may match the price if it is the identical item.Check Extended Hours
Many stores and malls will be extending hours to accommodate the rush of shoppers during this busy time. Expect longer lines and plan accordingly. If a store opens early or closes later than the others, you may want to shop during the extended hours and avoid the crowds.Go To the Bank Before You Go
If you prefer to use cash when you shop, do not depend on the mall money machines to actually have money. Busy times such as tax-free shopping days equal empty money machines.Avoid Over Spending
Sticking to a plan, working with a list and doing price comparisons before you head out the door will help to keep the focus on staying within a budget. The temptation to buy more will be strong, but doing so will take away from the goal to shop smart. It is not how much can one buy, but how much of what is needed can one buy at a good price and without going over budget.See Also: States Offering Tax-Free School Shopping
