Worried About Back-to-School Expenses? Search for the Best Dollar Deals

In just a few weeks, many students will find themselves back at school with newly purchased clothes and supplies. The back-to-school season can be an expensive time for parents and grandparents, but it doesn’t have to be — if you plan carefully. Here are a few money tips to get you started.

Stick to Your Budget

As with any event, have a budget. So, what’s your budget for sending the kids — or even yourself — back to class? Back-to-school shopping is just first on the list of school expenses you’ll have during the year. Others include activity fees, school pictures and fundraisers. Therefore, it’s important to set a budget for what you’ll  spend on supplies, backpacks, clothes, books and electronics — and stick to it.

Shop Tax-Free

August is the best time to catch a good deal on your most-needed school items. Each year, many states allow you to shop tax-free for supplies, clothing and, in some areas, computers. Check out  Federation of Tax Administrators to find out when there are tax holidays in your state. In some areas you can get up to $100 off your purchases, which can add up to big savings.

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Search Good Deals

Just in case you miss the tax-free shopping, don’t fret. Retailers like your local discount stores, Staples, Best Buy and Office Depot will have deeper sales on typically higher-priced items, such as computers, printers, ink and phones, now and throughout the year. Download apps like retailmenot.com and coupons.com to receive ongoing sale alerts. Also, shopping online will sometimes provide a better deal than in the store.

Don’t let back-to-school expenses stress your budget. Remember, there will other school-related purchases throughout the year.  Search for the best deals your dollar can buy.

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Also of Interest

• How to beat the S&P 500 index
• Is Social Security Taxable?
• Donate to help struggling Americans 50+ and older
• Join AARP: Savings, resources and news for your well-being

 

See the  AARP home page for deals, savings tips, trivia and more.