Maryland’s 2025 Tax-Free Week: Dates, Deals, & What’s Included

Maryland families gearing up for back-to-school season will soon get a break at the register. The state’s annual Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week returns from Sunday, August 10 at 12:01 a.m. through Saturday, August 16 at 11:59 p.m., offering significant savings on eligible clothing, shoes, and backpacks.

The week-long event allows shoppers to skip Maryland’s 6% sales tax on select back-to-school essentials, whether buying in stores or online — a welcome boost as families face rising costs.

What’s Tax-Free?

During Tax-Free Week, clothing and footwear priced at $100 or less per item are exempt from sales tax. This includes:

• Sweaters
• Shirts
• Jeans
• Dresses
• Shoes and boots

In addition, the first $40 of any backpack or bookbag purchase is tax-free. For example, if a backpack costs $50, only the $10 difference is taxed.

This exemption applies to each qualifying item, not the total purchase. That means you could buy three $99 shirts and pay no tax on any of them.

What’s Not Included?

Several categories do not qualify for tax-free status:

• Items priced over $100 (even by one cent)
• Accessories like jewelry, handbags, ties, or watches
• Protective gear (e.g., sports pads or safety boots)
• Crafting supplies like fabric, thread, buttons, or zippers
• Alterations or tailoring services

Online Orders, Layaways & Discounts

Online purchases are eligible as long as:

• The item is ordered and paid for between August 10–16
• The retailer accepts the order for immediate shipment (delivery can occur after the week ends)

Layaway plans started during Tax-Free Week also qualify, even if you finish paying later. However, rain checks issued during the week won’t qualify if redeemed after August 16.

When it comes to coupons:

• Retailer coupons that bring the price down to $100 or less make the item tax-free
• Manufacturer coupons do not lower the taxable price

Refunds for Incorrect Charges

If you’re charged tax on a qualifying item, you can request a refund by submitting a sales and use tax refund request via the Maryland Comptroller’s website.

For Businesses

Retailers are encouraged to document all qualifying discounts and clarify pricing, especially on backpacks and bookbags. Accuracy is key — mistakes could result in customer complaints or refund claims.

For a full list of eligible items or to access the refund request form, visit the Maryland Comptroller’s official website.