Save Big During South Carolina's Tax Free Weekend 2024: August 2-4

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South Carolina's much-anticipated Tax Free Weekend is back for 2024, offering shoppers an excellent opportunity to save on essential items. This year, the event runs from Friday, August 2, through Sunday, August 4. During this 72-hour period, shoppers can purchase a variety of items without paying the state’s 6% sales tax, as well as any applicable local taxes.

What You Can Buy Tax-Free

A wide range of items are eligible for tax-free status during this weekend. These include:

• Clothing and Footwear: Perfect for updating your wardrobe or buying new school uniforms.
• School Supplies: Backpacks, notebooks, and other essentials are tax-free, making it easier for families to prepare for the new school year.
• Computers and Accessories: Laptops, desktops, printers, and printer supplies can be purchased tax-free, although they should not be for business use.
• Bed and Bath Items: Towels, bedding, and other similar items are included.
• Diapers and Baby Clothes: Essential items for parents are also tax-exempt during this period​​​​.

Items Not Included

Not all items are eligible for the tax-free benefit. The following are excluded from the tax-free status:

• Digital Cameras
• Smartphones
• Jewelry
• Cosmetics
• Eyewear
• Watches
• Furniture​​​​.

Shopping Tips for Maximum Savings

To make the most out of this tax-free weekend, consider the following tips:

1. Make a List: Plan ahead by listing the items you need. Focus on high-priority and high-cost items first.
2. Pre-Shop: Visit stores a day before to scout out where your desired items are located. This will save time during the busy weekend.
3. Use Coupons and Discounts: Stack additional savings by using coupons or looking for store discounts available during the weekend.
4. Shop Online: Many retailers extend their tax-free offers to online shopping. This can be a convenient way to avoid crowds while still taking advantage of the savings​​.

Impact on Retailers

Retailers participating in the tax-free weekend cannot collect sales tax on eligible items during the event. To offset this, the government allows retailers to deduct the amount of sales tax not collected from their next sales tax return. This means that retailers need to keep detailed records of all transactions during the weekend​​.

A History of Savings

Since its inception in 2000, South Carolina’s Tax Free Weekend has helped shoppers save millions of dollars. Last year alone, residents purchased over $30.4 million in tax-free items, saving more than $1.8 million in sales tax. This event not only benefits consumers but also boosts local businesses by driving significant traffic during the weekend​​​​.

Conclusion

South Carolina's 2024 Tax Free Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for families to save on back-to-school essentials and other important items. Mark your calendars for August 2-4 and take advantage of the savings both in-store and online. Happy shopping!

Sources:

1. South Carolina Department of Revenue
2. NCBLPC
3. Herald-Advocate