TAMPA — After a one-year hiatus, the tax-free savings on personal computers and computer-related supplies has returned as part of the back-to-school tax holiday.
The deal applies to electronics priced $750 and under. Also included: clothing and shoes priced $60 and under and school supplies $15 and below. This year the tax-free weekend is Aug. 4-6.
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"This is a significant amount of money that can be saved," said James Miller, communication director for Florida Retail Federation. "A savvy retailer can add additional savings and discounts on top of that. That's how it can differentiate itself from the competition."
In 2016, the Florida Legislature decided to remove computers and related supplies from the tax-free list, due to tight budget restrictions. It also shortened the holiday from 10 days to three. This year, the holiday stays at three days while the deal on computers and related supplies is back.
"This is not for just for students (or parents); it's for everyone," Miller said. "Some people think you have to have a toddler under your arm to appreciate this weekend. That is not the case at all."
For purposes of the tax break, clothing includes handbags, backpacks, fanny packs and diaper bags. The discount excludes items such as briefcases, suitcases, watches, watchbands, jewelry and umbrellas and handkerchiefs.
For electronics, the deal includes electronic book readers, laptops, desktops, handhelds, tablets, and tower computers. What doesn't qualify: cellphones, video game consoles, digital media receivers or devices that are not primarily designed to process data.
In 2016, customers saved about $35 million in taxes without technology sales, according to Miller.
Note that the holiday doesn't apply within a theme park or entertainment complex.
Contact Tierra Smith at tsmith@ tampabay.com or (414) 702-5006. Follow @bytierrasmith.