Mississippi sales tax holiday helping parents shop for back to school

PINE BELT, Miss. (WDAM) - Shoppers across Mississippi can look forward to cheaper prices July 12 through July 14 as the state observes a sales tax holiday.

Beginning at 12:01 a.m. next Friday until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, there will be a hold on sales taxes for clothing, footwear and school supplies under $100.

The holiday is earlier than usual this year, helping out some Pine Belt parents whose children return to school as soon as July 22.

“I think it’s helpful for sure,” April Jordan said. “With two children, it definitely helps out, and moving it up a little earlier since the start of school is a little earlier is definitely an advantage, for sure.”

Families with multiple children especially are grateful as the cost of living rises and school supply lists grow longer.

“We have four kids, so anytime we can go clothes shopping for them, we look forward to any kind of discount we can get,” said Bryce Hantla.

Other parents are on the fence about hitting the aisles during the sales tax holiday because of large crowds.

“It’s kind of like Black Friday, where it’s like ‘Hey you can save 10 percent’ and I’m like ‘OK ...’” said Chris Jordan.

Even grandparents, who can remember fondly this time of year with their own children, said they also were happy to see things get a little easier for parents.

“We loved school shopping,” Valerie Craig said, “We liked getting all the supplies for the kids and it was fun for us.

“I’m kind of sad we’re not doing it this year. But, we’ll definitely take advantage when it’s our time again.”

Eligible items this holiday include: baby clothes, backpacks, most athletic wear, shoes, scout uniforms, and casual footwear or boots.

Other deals in stores, like buy one, get one free items, also will be tax free if the full priced item is less than $100.

For a full break down of eligible items and restrictions, click here.

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