The Massachusetts sales tax holiday is back this weekend. Here’s what to know.
Your chance to save some cash is coming back on Aug. 17 and 18, 2019.
Everybody loves a deal.
And if there’s ever a prime opportunity to scoop one up in Massachusetts — fireplace insert or gas grill you’ve been eyeing — that moment is coming soon.
This weekend, the state’s sales tax holiday returns, giving shoppers a chance to make some big-ticket purchases without fretting over the Commonwealth’s usual 6.25 percent cut of the bill.
Here’s everything to know about the two-day, tax-free affair, including when it is and how you can use it.
When is the tax holiday?
This year’s holiday is set for Aug. 17 and 18.
It’s about a week later than last year’s event, when the annual, two-day exemption returned after lawmakers decided to forgo it in 2016 and 2017 because of budget gaps.
In June, Rep. Paul Donato told the State House News Service pushing the holiday back a week “would be a better time for businesses.”
You can take advantage of the tax exemptions as long as the item is paid for within Eastern Standard Time hours between Aug. 17 and 18.
No sales tax is due on that purchase, even if delivery of the item occurs after the sales tax holiday weekend.
Similarly, if you purchase an item in-store during the holiday, you can still schedule home delivery after the weekend ends without paying tax.
What’s exempt from being tax-free?
Some items and products are not tax-free during the weekend. They are:
- Motorboats
- Motor vehicles
- Tobacco products
- Marijuana or marijuana products
- Alcoholic beverages
- Telecommunications services
- Steam
- Gas
- Electricity
- Any single item that costs more than $2,500
The tax holiday only applies to individuals who are buying items for personal use only.
Is there a limit? What is it?
Yes, there is a limit. The sales tax holiday only applies to items that cost $2,500 or less.
It’s important to note the $2,500 limit only applies to the cost of each individual item. If you purchase several items under that amount and the total bill surpasses $2,500, you won’t have to pay sales tax.
Are rentals tax-free? What about layaway purchases?
Generally speaking, rentals of up to 30 days are tax free during the holiday, but only if they are not one of the exempt items in the list above, such as motor vehicles or motor boats.
Do I have to pay tax if, after the holiday, I return or exchange an item I bought tax-free?
No. Taxes will not be retroactively charged.
What else should I know?
If you’re unable to make that big purchase in August, there’s always next year.
Massachusetts lawmakers passed a law in 2018 that permanently creates a tax holiday weekend every year, so rest assured you’ll have another chance to score a deal.
Contact The Fireplace Shop and Grill Center at West Sport in Sudbury, MA for more information.
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