As summer winds down, the excitement of a new school years begins to build. While it’s a fun time, it can also be a budget-buster. Navigator Credit Union has some ways you can navigate the back-to-school shopping season.
Take Inventory
Do a quick inventory at home. Look for any extra supplies you may have stashed away. Check your child’s backpack for any gently used pencils, crayons or notebooks. The more you have at home, the less you have to buy new.
Create a Shopping List
Make a detailed list of the items your child needs. Be sure to include any extras like sports uniforms and water bottles that could take a beating during the school year. Having a list helps you stay focused, reduces the likelihood of impulse purchases and helps you stay on budget.
Take Advantage of Tax-Free Weekends
Both Mississippi and Alabama offer tax-free weekends, which can result in significant savings on school supplies, clothing and electronics.
- Mississippi’s Tax-Free Weekend: From Friday, July 12 to Sunday, July 14, shoppers can buy clothing and footwear under $100 per item without paying state sales tax. Learn more.
- Alabama’s Tax-Free Weekend: Set for Friday July 19 to Sunday, July 21, it includes school supplies up to $50 per item, clothing up to $100 per item, and computers and educational software up to $750 per item. Learn more.
Mark these dates on your calendar and plan to do the bulk of your shopping during these weekends to maximize your savings.
Involve Your Child
Involve your child in the shopping process to teach them about budgeting and smart shopping. Give them a set amount of money to spend on certain items and help them make choices within that budget. This can be a valuable learning experience and make the process more fun.