Getting Smart About Tax-Free Weekends with Crystal Paine

Three words that can make any parent’s wallet flinch: “Back to school.” But there’s a silver lining—especially if your state has a tax-free weekend.

For families gearing up for a new school year, those tax holidays can make a real difference. Today, Crystal Paine shares smart, practical ways to get prepared and save money along the way.

Crystal Paine is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com and the author of The Money Saving Mom's Budget: Slash Your Spending, Pay Down Your Debt, Streamline Your Life, and Save Thousands a Year. 

Does Your State Participate?

Not every state offers a tax-free weekend, and the rules vary widely from state to state. Crystal recommends checking your state’s Department of Revenue or the Federation of Tax Administrators for up-to-date information.

Understand what qualifies, as in some states, clothing must be under $100, and online purchases often count—if ordered and paid for within the specified window. Even if you’re not shopping for back-to-school items, this can still be a good time to purchase other qualifying necessities.

Don’t treat the tax-free weekend like a shopping spree. Instead, we suggest that you:

• Make a list of what your family actually needs.
• Set a budget—especially if your kids are old enough to be involved (around age 8–10).
• Know the limits so you don’t go over a price cap and lose the exemption.
• Stack your savings by searching for coupons or shopping through cashback sites like RetailMeNot.

Simply search for the site name and ‘coupon code’ before making a purchase.

What About Online Shopping?

A common misconception to keep in mind is that if you order and pay during the holiday window, and the item qualifies, it’s usually tax-exempt, even if it ships later. Please ensure it ships to an in-state address.

One important caveat to remember is that Amazon may not always participate, and shipping costs may be included in item price caps in some states. Therefore, read the fine print and always check your confirmation receipt to ensure that tax wasn’t accidentally charged.

Stewardship Over Savings

The ultimate goal isn’t just saving money—it’s honoring God. Sometimes we think we’re saving when we’re really just spending less wastefully. But that’s still spending. Ask yourself: Am I buying this because it’s a wise investment, or is it just because it’s on sale?

Make prayerful purchases—asking God for wisdom, guidance, and even provision when looking for specific items. God is faithful to lead us when we invite Him into our financial decisions.

Good stewardship is about more than just saving money. It’s about aligning our spending with God’s purposes. To learn more and find additional resources, visit MoneySavingMom.com.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I’m 63 and still plan to work for a couple more years. My employer has just started offering a Roth 403(b), and I’m wondering—if I'm at my age, does it make sense to contribute?
• I’m 46 and considering selling my townhome, but I’m unsure if now is the right time. If I do sell, what’s the best way to invest the equity?
• I