Tax-free weekend is coming up in Massachusetts. Here’s what you can and can’t buy at a discount.

BOSTON – It’s almost time for tax-free weekend in Massachusetts. Here’s what you need to know about the annual holiday weekend. sales tax holiday that many in the state mark on their calendars when planning a major purchase.

When is the tax-free weekend in Massachusetts?

This year, the Legislature approved the 2024 Massachusetts sales tax holiday weekend for Saturday, August 10, and Sunday, August 11. On those days, the state sales tax of 6.25% will be waived for most retail items.

What can you buy during the tax-free weekend in Massachusetts?

The sales tax exemption applies to retail items costing less than $2,500. All retailers in the state that are open that weekend must participate.

Do online purchases qualify for the Massachusetts tax-free weekend?

Yes, eligible online purchases made during the tax-free weekend will qualify for the exemption.

What purchases do not qualify for sales tax exemption in Massachusetts?

Mass.gov has a list of items that do not qualify for sales tax exemption. They are as follows:

• foods
• cars
• motor boats
• Telecommunications services
• gas
• steam
• electricity
• tobacco products
• Marijuana or marijuana products
• alcohol
• Installment sales

Why is there a tax-free weekend in Massachusetts?

Former Governor Charlie Baker in 2018 signed a bill It was signed into law that raised the minimum wage, required paid leave for workers and mandated an annual sales tax holiday weekend in Massachusetts. The tax holiday weekend takes place in August because that is typically a slow month for retailers.

How much does the sales tax exemption benefit Massachusetts businesses?

Massachusetts Retailers Association told WBZ-TV Last year, mom-and-pop stores were able to make most of their August sales during the tax-free weekend. But the Washington, D.C.-based Tax Foundation has called the annual sales tax holiday “ineffective,” saying customers are simply rescheduling large purchases they were already planning to make.