Tax free weekend started yesterday in North Carolina and more people here in the Greater Raleigh Area are heading to the stores to shop this year over last year. While shopping without taxes can be beneficial to your wallet, there are a couple of other ways that you can save even more.
1. Look for the open box, clearance section in the electronic stores.
Last year my family wanted to buy a new computer for our kitchen area and we started looking at all of the sales ads. I found a great deal at one store and decided to check at my local Best Buy store before I made my purchase. I am so glad that I did! Low and behold, someone had returned a new MAC 17″ desktop computer that was still the current model. Nothing was wrong with it! I was so excited ! After the open box discount and tax free weekend incentives, plus no taxes, I ended up saving over $500 off the current list price at the Apple store. Score!!!
2. Carry your smart phone with you into the stores.
By downloading a QR Reader App or even googling an item, you can find out quickly if you are standing in front of the best deal for that item or not. Also, google for coupons for that store or product. 
Many cashiers will scan your smartphone and still give you a great discount if you have the offer pulled up on your phone. I have been known to save over 20% on average just by doing that on large purchases.
3. Think ahead.
Did you just buy a home or move here in the Raleigh Area? You may still be settling in, however, think through what you might need over the next few months. A new tv, computer, computer parts, printer, or other supplies may come in handy. Do you have growing kids? What size will they be moving into over the next few months? Look at your shoes, need a new pair? (I always think new shoes are in order!) If you have a pair that needs replacing or repair you can look for the same shoe and probably get a good discount- plus you can can buy them tax free!
So What is Considered Eligible for the Tax Free Status?
- School supplies of $100 or less per item
- Clothing
- Footwear
- School instructional materials of $300 or less per item
- Sports and recreational equipment of $50 or less per item
- Computers of $3,500 or less per item
- Computer supplies of $250 or less
Have a great weekend!