Maryland's Tax-Free Week Key Time For Buyers, Businesses

HAGERSTOWN (AP) -- Consumers can save money by shopping during Maryland's Tax-Free Week, and the time has turned into a critical period for retailers, too.

"Back-to-school shopping season is easily our second-busiest time of year after holiday shopping," Angie Riford, director of marketing and business development for Hagerstown Premium Outlets, wrote in an email. "We look forward to Tax-Free Week every year because of the extra savings we can offer our shoppers."

Tax-free week, approved by the Maryland General Assembly in 2007, is conducted annually on the second week in August. This year, it falls a little later in the calendar than usual, on Aug. 14 to 20. During the week, any single, qualifying article of clothing or footwear priced at $100 or less, no matter how many items are purchased at the same time, will be exempt from the state's 6 percent sales tax, according to the state comptroller's office.

"A break on the cost of clothing and shoes can make a real difference and help stretch family budgets," Comptroller Peter Franchot said in a news release. "Local retailers also benefit with increased foot traffic."

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