Tax-free weekend forthcoming

SUNRISE, Fla. (WSVN) -- The annual tax-free weekend is fast approaching.

Parents looking to save big bucks on school clothing and supplies for the new school year will be hitting up stores and shopping malls across South Florida this weekend. "Tax-free weekend is pretty amazing. It starts this Friday through Sunday, August 3rd through the 5th," said Joellyn Fellmeth, director of marketing for Sawgrass Mills Mall. "There is not tax on the basic things you need for school: Clothing, footwear and school supplies."

According to Fellmeth, however, the tax-free holiday does not mean that every item sold in stores will be tax-free. "So, just to give people an idea, LEGO does not count. Nike would count when you're buying sneakers. J.Crew Kids counts. Bath and Body Works does not count," she said.

Any clothing or footwear item under $75, and all school supplies $15 and under, qualify for the tax-exempt weekend.

Many parents took advantage of last year's tax-free weekend, and many are expected to take part in the holiday this year. Therefore, shoppers can expect crowds when out shopping this weekend. "I would say shop smart," said Fellmeth. "Go online, look at maps and offers. Plan your route, lay it out that way, before you even come."

For a complete list of what you can and cannot buy without paying taxes, visit http://dor.myflorida.com/dor/tips/pdf/tip12a01-02.pdf.

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