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Is Target Closed on Memorial Day 2020?

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IS Target Closed on Memorial Day?

Every holiday, people wonder if their favorite stores are going to be open. For example, they want to know if Target will be open so that they can pick up last minute Memorial Day supplies. Usually, the answer for Target is yes. But, considering the impact of COVID-19 restrictions, is that still true this year? Is Target closed on Memorial Day 2020?

Target Is Usually Open on Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a federal holiday. Therefore, certain things are always closed on Memorial Day. For example, schools and post offices don’t typically stay open on holidays like Memorial Day. But shopping stores are different. In fact, big stores like Target love to stay open on federal holidays.

After all, since many employees of those other places are off of work for the day, it means that there are more people potentially out shopping. Memorial Day and other similar holidays are huge shopping days. Stores, including Target, do usually stay open. Historically, Target has always been open on Memorial Day.

Will Target Be Open or Closed on Memorial Day 2020?

So, why would this year be any different? Well, even if you know that your local Target store is typically open on Memorial Day, you might wonder if COVID-19 restrictions have changed things this year. After all, some businesses aren’t open at all right now. In many states, there are big limitations on stores. So, is Target closed for Memorial Day 2020 even though it’s usually open for the holiday?

No, Target is not closed for Memorial Day 2020.

Target is open for Memorial Day 2020.

Memorial Day, which is Monday, May 25, 2020, could potentially be a great shopping day for people who need to pick up summer items.

Is There a Memorial Day Sale at Target?

Stores like Target often have big Memorial Day sales. After all, this holiday is basically considered the start of summer. Many people typically celebrate by having big summer bashes including barbecues and picnics in the park. While that would be a great way to spend Memorial Day 2020, a lot of us aren’t going to have that option.

Here in the San Francisco Bay Area, we are still under shelter-in-place restrictions. We are allowed out and about and can enjoy the parks. However, groups have to stay small and practice social distancing. So there is some opportunity to enjoy Memorial Day in the park but it won’t be the big to-do that it may have been for you in years past. Nevertheless, you might still wish to pick up some Memorial Day supplies.

Or you might have a new type of celebration in mind. For example, if you have kids at home, this can be the perfect day to start making summer crafts together. Or you might just want to make a summer-inspired meal. Since many Target stores have groceries in them (which is one of the reasons that it’s considered an essential business and thus is allowed to stay open during coronavirus restrictions), you can certainly do that at your local Target store.

With that in mind, you might want to know if there will be a 2020 Memorial Day Sale at Target. Yes and no. Target has a Memorial Day sale on Home items including up to 40% off of some furniture. However, the Target Memorial Day Sale is online only.

How Target Has Responded to Coronavirus

Target, like all other businesses, has had to adapt their stores in order to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions. While some people find this annoying, the purpose is to keep staff and customers safe. Target has made some great efforts in this area. In fact, they contributed their largest-ever single relief donation of $10 million in response to the coronavirus crisis.

But what are they doing specifically in the stores that you should be aware of if you plan to shop there on Memorial Day 202o? Target’s coronavirus response includes:

Target Store Hours: Memorial Day 2020

Target doesn’t typically change their store hours for the Memorial Day Holiday. Therefore, you can expect store hours to remain the same as they have been in recent weeks. However, remember that this may differ from store hours prior to the coronavirus outbreak.

Target responded to COVID-19 restrictions with two big changes to their hours:

  • All stores must close by 9 pm. Stores that previously closed before that time still close at their normal hours. Stores that closed later all close at 9 pm now.
  • The first opening hour on every Wednesday is for high-risk shoppers, including the elderly, only. This allows them to shop safely.

Of course, the Wednesday at-risk shopping hours don’t impact Memorial Day shoppers. After all, Memorial Day is always on a Monday.

The shortened store hours allow Target employees to re-stock the shelves and improve cleanliness, sanitization, and safety throughout the stores.

Other Coronavirus Measures at Target

Other than the hours, here are some of the things that you can expect to see at Target if you shop there on Memorial Day 2020:

  • Staff are wearing masks and gloves and following all CDC guidelines for hygiene
  • Customers are encouraged (and in some states required) to wear face masks
  • A staff member is assigned to each store entrance to keep carts and baskets sanitized
  • Checkout lanes are rotated to reduce traffic at each one and are cleaned between each customer
  • Plastic partitions have been installed at checkouts and in other areas of the store such as the pharmacy
  • Overhead audio messaging as well as monitoring by staff members helps remind customers to practice social distancing
  • Customers can no longer bring their own bags into the store for shopping

Customers can also take advantage of the option to order contactless Drive Up pickup. So, if you want to get some things from Target for Memorial Day, but you don’t want to risk shopping in store, then consider that option.

Are Other Target Services Open on Memorial Day 2020?

Like Walmart and other big stores, Target has multiple services within the shop. For example, you can go to the pharmacy, grab a coffee at Starbucks, and check out the electronics section. However, things are different with COVID-19 restrictions. The Starbucks stores are closed right now. Fitting rooms are also closed, so although you can buy clothes, you can’t try them on in store. You can always call to check with your local store to find out what is and isn’t available there for Memorial Day 2020.

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If you’re wondering whether or not Target is open for Memorial Day, then you might have questions about some other stores and services as well. Here are some links to help you find all of the Memorial Day store information you need:

Should You Be Shopping for Nonessential Goods Right Now?

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nonessential goods

Most of the United States was shut down throughout the month of April. Despite this, many people hit online stores to shop for nonessential goods during the pandemic. Is now the best time to be buying these items?

Essential vs. Nonessential Goods

The COVID-19 pandemic has made many of us question what is (and is not) essential when it comes to purchasing things. Most of us aren’t leaving the house to buy a new treadmill right now. However, because so many people are stuck at home, online retailers are holding sales, and many folks are buying things they normally wouldn’t.

According to U.S. News & World Report, there was an increase in book and magazine purchases by 292%. Video games and baby/kids items also saw an increase of 140% and 150%, respectively. While these items aren’t necessarily essential, they are making it easier for people to pass the time indoors.

When it comes to deciphering the difference between essential and nonessential goods, it will differ from person to person. For instance, some individuals may not see buying a new computer monitor as a necessity, but if your computer stopped working and you need it to make a living, it is.

Should You Be Making Nonessential Purchases?

There are two concerns when it comes to shopping for nonessential goods right now. Obviously, there are some health concerns (everybody is concerned about their health right now). There is also an additional financial aspect to be considered as well.

Any time you’re making a nonessential purchase (even outside of pandemic times), you are more likely to stop and browse more nonessential items. This means you’ll spend more time in the store, exposing yourself to more surfaces and germs. Not to mention, it is fairly likely you’ll spend more money than you meant to.

Many people are also receiving stimulus checks and other government assistance that may be considered “extra” money right now. If you’re thinking about using your stimulus check on nonessential items, be sure you have your finances in order first. Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund and essentials before using it for anything else.

When it comes down to it, deciding whether or not you will go to buy nonessential goods will depend on how much you feel you need the item. It is important not to forget to protect your own financial future and security as well. Don’t allow your desire for an item hurt that! 

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Savings Challenge: $1000 by Black Friday

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black friday

There are eight Fridays between now and Black Friday. Those are eight opportunities to save up for holiday shopping, especially if you budget or get paid weekly. If you get paid biweekly, you have four or five paydays to save up. If you don’t think you have room in the budget to save, then you’ll need to get creative to reach $1,000 by Black Friday.

Reaching your goal will be easier if you break it up into small chunks. Here are five ways to save $125 per week.

  1. Easy ways to start saving are to cook more of your meals at home and use coupons for groceries. Also, bike, walk, or take public transportation instead of driving if it is more affordable. Skip happy hour and try potlucks at home to spend time with friends. Additionally, review your subscriptions and services you may not use. Cancel Netflix and sign up for free with a new email address for 30 days. You will have saved $12.99 already. If you don’t think that’s a lot, keep in mind that everything will be on sale for Black Friday so that $12.99 plus any interest earned can buy a toy, doll, action figure, coloring book, or pair of kids’ shoes. Dig deep into your budget to see where you can save. 
  2. Now is a good time to shop around for new car insurance, cell phone plans, or bank promotions. You can make hundreds of dollars by lowering your monthly expenses and putting the savings into a new account. If you decide to have $125 per week or $250 every two weeks direct deposited, you could have an extra $100 or $200 in your account by the end of November.
  3. Sell items to earn $1000 without having to change your lifestyle. If you’re going to purchase the latest gadget, then sell your old one. You’re probably going to buy clothes and shoes, so make room by selling items on Poshmark. Additionally, You should sell things that still have tags because you will get more. Do you have any watches or other jewelry collecting dust? You can sell them on eBay. If you handmake items, sell them on Etsy. Some brick and mortar consignment shops will buy unused products from Bath and Body Works and Victoria’s Secret.
  4. Extra Work. Side hustles are old faithful for extra money towards a goal. Wash cars, mow lawns. If you’re in the northwest where it’s already snowing, plow driveways and sidewalks. If your job offers overtime, take advantage. 
  5. Get a seasonal job. Many businesses hire seasonal workers. Some start earlier than others. Know that it will be two to three weeks before you receive your first paycheck. Plan to set all of the money earned aside for holiday shopping. If you know you want to purchase items at a particular store, try to get a seasonal position there. Many offer employee discounts, even during the holidays. I worked as an associate at Coach after college during the holidays. I started as a seasonal employee and became eligible for the discount and other perks in time for Christmas.

If you’re not into holiday shopping, this plan is an easy way to beef up your emergency fund or save towards a goal. These tips are useful for any dollar figure or event you’re planning. If you have an anniversary trip six months from now, you could have $3,000 saved by following the same plan. 

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56 of the Best Mother’s Day Freebies and Deals of 2019

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mother's day freebies
If you haven’t yet gotten a gift for your mom, you’re in luck: there are plenty of great sales you can check out in time for this Sunday’s holiday. And if you’re looking into treating her to a meal, there are plenty of deals at restaurants too. Here are 56 of the best Mother’s Day freebies and deals.

50+ Mother’s Day Freebies and Deals for 2019

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), Americans will spend a record-breaking $25 billion honoring their moms on Mother’s Day this year. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a lot. Not only are there numerous deals and discounts at several retailers and restaurants, but there are also quite a few freebies.

With all of the restaurant promotions out there, you would do well to assume that anywhere you want to dine this year will be busy, so make reservations ahead of time. Also, keep in mind that participation and pricing may vary by location and franchise. Contact your local restaurant to confirm details.

99 Restaurant & Pub

Order from a special menu on May 11 and 12, featuring Twin Petite Filet Mignon, fresh New England Baked Scallops, Colossal Lobster Rolls, specially priced cocktails and beverages, and more.

Another Broken Egg Cafe

Moms dining here on Mother’s Day will receive a $10 Brunch Buck (redeemable on next visit, May 13 through 26).

Applebee’s

Get a $10 bonus card free (redeemable through August 11) with the purchase of any $50 gift card through June 30. Also, $1 margaritas are available for the entire month of May.

Arooga’s Grille House & Sports Bar

Moms eat free on Mother’s Day with purchase of equal or greater value – dine-in only. (Offer not available in East Brunswick, NJ).

Baskin-Robbins

Now through May 12, save $3 on any ice cream cake order of $15 or more when you redeem the Mother’s Day coupon available on Baskin-Robbins’ website.

Bahama Breeze

Get two free dine-in gift cards for $10 apiece when you buy a $50 gift card; the first free card is valid May 27 through July 31 and the second one is good from July 1 through August 31.

Baker’s Square

When you buy a $25 gift card through June 16, you get a $5 coupon card (redeemable June 26 through August 9).

bd’s Mongolian Grill

For every $25 gift card you buy before June 30, receive a free $5 bonus card (redeemable through June 30).

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

Moms eat for free on Mother’s Day with purchase of equal or greater value up to $10.

Benihana

Purchase $50 in gift cards through May 12, and receive a free $10 promotional card (redeemable May 13 through June 16).

BJ’s Restaurant

For every $50 BJ’s eGift Card purchased through May 12, the purchaser receives a free Pizookie® bonus card (redeemable for one free Pizookie® May 13 through June 15). Also, all moms get a free commemorative wine glass on May 11 and 12 while supplies last.

Bojangles

Make it a magical Mother’s Day with heart-shaped bo-berry biscuits available only Mother’s Day weekend.

Bravo

Buy $100 in gift cards through June 16 and receive a $25 bonus card (redeemable June 17 through August 31). Also, enter for a chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip for two to Southern Italy (contest ends May 12).

Brixx Wood Fired Pizza

Get 1/2 Priced Bottles of Wine on May 12.

Burger 21

Free burger for Mom on Mother’s Day with any kid’s meal purchase. Also, purchase $20 in gift cards and receive a free small fry or shake reward (redeemable on your next visit).

Carrabba’s Italian Grill

The restaurant has a special menu for Mother’s Day weekend, and doors will open at 10:30 am on Mother’s Day. Also, receive a $10 promotional card (redeemable May 13 through July 19) when you buy $50 in gift cards through June 16.

Carvel

Get $2 off any cake 48 oz. or larger; $3 off any sheet cake; offers valid through June 10.

Cheesecake Factory

For every $50 ecard purchased online (up to $200) through May 12, receive a $10 bonus ecard.

Fogo de Chao

Moms receive a complimentary dining card on May 12 (redeemable May 13 through July 11. Also, receive a $25 bonus ecard (redeemable June 17 through August 29) for every $125 in online gift card purchases through June 16.

Grubhub

Satisfy Mom’s cravings with delivery from popular neighborhood restaurants and chains with $10 off your first order.

Joe’s Crab Shack

Celebrate mom with a special four-course meal on Mother’s Day for $35.99; meal includes appetizer, side salad, entrée, and dessert.

Mimi’s Café

The restaurant is serving a three-course meal on Mother’s Day starting at 11:00 am, $19.99 for adults and $10.99 for kids — including appetizer, entrée, and dessert.

O’Charleys

Purchase $25 in gift cards through May 12 and receive $10 in rewards (redeemable June 17 through August 18).

Olive Garden

The Olive Garden will open early at 10:30 am on Mother’s Day. Plus, receive a $10 bonus card (redeemable June 1 through June 30) with every $50 in gift cards purchased by May 12.

Outback Steakhouse

Treat Mom to a meal fit for a queen with a special menu available May 8 through 12. Plus, purchase $50 in gift cards through June 16 and receive a free $10 gift card (redeemable May 13 through July 19).

Panera Bread

Purchase $50 in gift cards through May 31 and receive a free $10 bonus card (redeemable June 1 through June 30).

PF Chang’s

Purchase $50 in gift cards through June 19 and receive a free $10 bonus card (redeemable June 20 through July 31).

Spaghetti Warehouse

Free Spaghetti and Meatballs on May 12 with purchase of a Mother’s Day Meal and the coupon available on the Spaghetti Warehouse website (offer not available in Columbus, OH).

Texas Steakhouse

Treat Mom to Texas Steakhouse on Mother’s Day, and she will receive a voucher for a free entrée redeemable on her next visit. Also, if you buy a $50 gift card online, for a limited time a $10 bonus voucher will be emailed to you.

TCBY

Moms get a free six-ounce frozen yogurt on Mother’s Day.

TGI Fridays

Purchase $25 in gift cards through June 19 and receive $5 in Bonus Bites (redeemable July 1 through August 31).

Wienerschnitzel

Moms get a free meal on Mother’s Day consisting of a chili dog, small fries, and small soda.

Mother’s Day Gifts

1-800-Baskets

Use promo code WOW20 at checkout to save to 20% on Mother’s Day gifts; free shipping on select items.

1-800-Flowers

Use promo code 25MOM at checkout to save 25% on flowers.

Bath & Body Works

Use promo code MOMSDAY at checkout by May 10 to get a Mother’s Day tote featuring 8 spring essentials for $30 with any $30 purchase; buy 3 get 3 free on select body care items; get 2 Concentrated Room Sprays for $12; get 5 Wallflowers Fragrance Refills for $23.

Bed Bath & Beyond

Promotions include:

  • 35% off Brookstone® Outlast® down comforter while supplies last
  • 30% off Calphalon® griddle and grill pans through May 26, plus receive a $50 bonus gift card with select Calphalon® items
  • 25% off select Corningware® bakeware through May 13
  • 20% off Breville® toaster ovens through May 15
  • Up to $100 off Dyson vacuums through June 3
  • Save $50 with a Google Home Hub purchase and get a Google Home Mini
  • $100 off KitchenAid® Artisan® mixer through May 12
  • $30 off Instant Pot duo through May 13; $30 off Keurig® K-Cafe™ through May 12
  • Free shipping on orders over $39

Best Buy

Save $50 on the Apple Watch Series 4; purchase $100 in gift cards through May 11 and receive a $10 savings code (redeemable through May 11).

Charming Charlie’s

Save 50% off select beauty products; free shipping on orders $59 or more.

DSW

Earn a $10 bonus card (redeemable June 6 through 27) when you purchase $50 in gift cards, or $25 bonus card when you purchase $100 in gift cards, through May 12; free shipping on orders of at least $35; save up to 70% on women’s shoes marked as clearance items; other styles have savings ranging from 20% to 70%.

From You Flowers

Use promo code 050 at checkout to save 15% on purchases.

FTD

Order by May 10 and save up to 25% off; select bouquets listed up to half off.

Gourmet Gift Baskets

Select items eligible for free shipping.

Hallmark

Save up to 50% on gifts and cards with Mother’s Day themes.

JC Penney

Buy $75 in gift cards through May 12 and receive a coupon for $10 off $10 (redeemable May 13 through May 27).

Jewlr

Save up to 75% on select Mother’s Day gifts; receive a free gift with each purchase; shipping is free to all 50 states.

Kay Jewelers

Save 30% on everything in the store, and up to 50% off clearance items through May 12; free shipping for orders over $50.

Kohl’s

  • Use promo code MOMSDAY10 at checkout to get $10 off when you spend at least $50 on Mother’s Day gifts
  • Use promo code JEWELRY20 at checkout to get up to 20% off select styles of women’s jewelry
  • Use promo code WATCHES10 at checkout to get 10% off women’s watches
  • Free shipping with $75 purchase; offers valid through May 12

Macy’s

  • Free summer tote bag and 6-piece gift with $37.50 Lancôme purchase
  • Three additional gifts with $75 Lancôme purchase
  • Free full-size cleanser with $125 Lancôme purchase;
  • Six full-size pieces and travel-size primer only $45 with any Lancôme purchase
  • Use promo code MOM at checkout to save up to 20% in select departments
  • 25% off Michael Kors items; 35-50% off select jewelry
  • Free shipping on all orders over $75

Massage Envy

Buy three 60-minute customized facial sessions for just $150 (redeemable starting May 12).

Murad

  • Use promo code GIFTBOX at checkout to receive a gift box when you spend at least $35 by May 12
  • Use promo code SMOOTH or RADIANT at checkout to receive one of two free mini duos with $65 purchase, or enter DOUBLEDUO at checkout with $100 purchase to receive both, through May 31
  • Use promo code ONTHEGO to receive a free TSA-friendly wristlet with purchase of any 2 travel-size essentials through May 31
  • Free shipping with any order of at least $50

Pandora

Several pieces of jewelry are on sale, and many clearance items are up to 30% off.

Reebok

Sitewide sale 30% off all apparel, footwear and accessories, plus use promo code MOM at checkout to receive additional 30% off.

Target

  • Use promo code BEAUTY at checkout to receive $5 gift card with purchase of $20 in select beauty and personal care items through May 18
  • Use promo code SHORTS20 at checkout to receive 20% off select women’s shorts through May 11
  • Receive $5 gift card when you buy three select Neutrogena skincare items through May 11
  • Receive a free 3-piece Neutrogena brush set with the purchase of at least $15 on Neutrogena cosmetics through May 12
  • Receive a free Covergirl striped makeup bag with purchase of at least $15 on Covergirl cosmetics through May 18
  • Save 20% on select jewelry and accessories as well as top fitness brands
  • Save 25% on patio items
  • Buy three select women’s tees and tanks for $20 through May 18

Plus various sales sitewide and throughout stores.

West Elm

Save 20% on select dining furniture; save 25% on select bedding, rugs, curtains, pillows, throws, and bath items; save up to 40% on outdoor furniture and decor; enter code BESTBUDS at checkout to save 15% on select vases with purchase of Bouqs Bouquet; save up to 60% on various clearance items sitewide and throughout stores.

Williams Sonoma

Save up to save up to 20% on select outdoor cooking and dining essentials; save up to 50% on select cookware; save up to 50% on Nespresso coffee and espresso makers; save up to 60% on select electronics; save up to 75% on various clearance items; plus get free shipping on all orders over $49.

Zales

Save up to 50% sitewide and throughout stores; save up to 60% on various clearance items; order by May 10 for free shipping on most items.

Readers, please share with us your experiences with any of the Mother’s Day deals we’ve listed. And if you see any we’ve missed, please let us know by posting about it in the comments section below.

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Costco Roses Are Red, Are They Cheaper Too?

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Costco Roses

Valentine’s Day has the sale of red roses through the roof. While many florists can get away with charging up to $3.50 a stem, you can get roses for around $1 each. That is if you are willing to order more than 12. Bulk or otherwise, Costco roses seem to be the most fairly priced.

Average Price of Roses

Despite studies showing most women don’t want flowers for Valentine’s Day, roses continue to be a popular gift for the holiday.

This year, you can grab a dozen roses at Costco for $15.99. Although there’s no vase included, you can’t really beat that elsewhere. In fact, the average price of a dozen roses has climbed in recent years.

Bouquet prices can reach up to $6 per stem, making a dozen cost more than $60, with higher-end bouquets landing around $100. The average price paid for a dozen falls around $30. Typically, price varies on quality, supply, and stem length. Oftentimes, cheaper bouquets will not be as high quality.

Costco Roses Bulk Price

Costco Roses

Buying in bulk, of course, will always save you money but you’ll be stuck with more roses than you need, most likely. The bulk lot requirement to save money at Costco: 50 roses for $49.99. If you talk any of your friends into going in on a deal with you and splitting up the flowers, then the deal is fairly cheap and can save you money. However, most people don’t need 50 roses.

Costco is able to offer such low prices on roses because the company negotiated a bulk deal with a flower warehouse located in Colombia. Unlike many other cheaper options, the quality of the roses is fantastic.

Interestingly, Costco’s deal doesn’t require membership for purchase, and it includes shipping and handling. However, the deal is only available online or via telephone. You will not be able to place Costco roses orders in the store.

Last-Minute Savings

Unfortunately, it is probably too late to order a last-minute bouquet for your sweetheart. Costco typically requires all Valentine’s Day orders to be in by noon EST on February 10. Oftentimes, the wholesale retailer sells out early. The same is the case with many other retailers and flower companies. You’ll likely be able to rely on Walmart and some of the mainstream flower companies for last-minute assistance. Here are the prices for last-minute Valentine’s Day roses.

  • Walmart: Bouquets of roses start at $9.99 and go up from there. Most locations will also have some roses available in premade vases if you get there early enough in the day.
  • Amazon: Prime members may have the best option when it comes to buying last-minute roses for Valentine’s Day. You can get free two-day shipping on roses through Amazon. Get two dozen roses through Amazon for just $45.
  • ProFlowers: ProFlowers has one dozen roses from $19.99. You can get additional sweets and gifts for your significant other through them as well. They will be taking orders up until February 13 for Valentine’s Day.
  • 1-800-Flowers: This company is offering a similar guarantee. As long as you order by noon EST the day before Valentine’s, you should have your order the next day. Prices for one dozen roses through 1-800-Flowers start at $24.99.

Additionally, the closer you get to the holiday, the more likely businesses are to raise their prices. If the price of roses is a bit too high for your Valentine’s budget, you may also consider looking into different types of flowers for your significant other. Inquire what some of their favorites might be and consider sending those instead. Carnations are always a popular second choice.

Readers, are you planning to send (or receive) any flowers this Valentine’s Day? 

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Save Money Shopping On These 2019 Sales Tax Holidays

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sales tax holiday

Every year, certain states hold tax holidays. During the events, they waive the sales tax on specific purchases, allowing shoppers to potentially save a substantial amount of money. A few of the sales tax holidays even align with the start of the school year, helping parents save a significant amount of money on school-related necessities.

What Is a Sales Tax Holiday?

A sales tax holiday is a special shopping event. On designated days, a state does not require retailers to collect state sales tax on specific purchase categories.

By buying eligible items during a sales tax holiday in 2019, you can reduce your total spending. The amount of savings you will experience varies depending on the state tax rate, though it can be substantial. As a result, sales tax holidays are major shopping events, especially for families who work with a tight budget.

However, some states do cap the cost of each item in order to qualify, based on its category. For example, you may be limited to $100 in per clothing if you want the tax-free benefit. Once you cross that threshold, the item is not eligible for the tax-free holiday.

Additionally, state sales tax holidays do not necessarily mean you will not pay any sales tax. Local sales tax may still apply. However, the total savings is still significant even if that is the case.

States With Sales Tax Holidays

Only 16 states have tax holidays. They are:

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Connecticut
  • Iowa
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • New Mexico
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Virginia
  • Wisconsin

The remaining states do not hold tax-free shopping events at any point during the year. However, it is also important to note that some states do not have sales tax. This means all purchases there remain tax-free. Here is a list of states that do not have sales tax all year-round:

  • Alaska
  • Delaware
  • Montana
  • New Hampshire
  • Oregon

Other states exclude certain categories from sales tax as well. For example, clothing is always tax-free in these states:

  • Minnesota
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island

Sales Tax Holiday Chart

The sales tax holiday schedules vary depending on the state. Here is a chart of the 2019 sales tax holiday events:

Alabama
In Alabama, the Annual Severe Weather Holiday is from February 22 through February 24, 2019. During the tax-free holiday, severe weather preparedness items, valuing no more than $60 each, are exempt from sales tax. Generators and power cords with price tags at or below $1,000 are also tax-free.
Alabama also has a Back to School Sales Tax Holiday from July 19 to July 21, 2019. During the event, the following items are tax-free, within the limits described. below:
    • Clothing, Shoes, and Some Accessories – $100 or less per item
    • Computers, Software, Computer Supplies –$750 or less per purchase
    • School Supplies – $50 or less per item
    • Books – $30 or less per book

Arkansas
From August 3 to August 4, 2019, the Annual Back to School Holiday makes various school-related items tax-free. Here are the limits:
  • Clothing and Shoes – items less than $10
  • Clothing Accessories and Equipment – items less than $50
  • School Supplies and Instructional Materials – no item price limit

Connecticut
Connecticut holds their Annual Back to School Holiday between August 18 and August 24, 2019. Clothing and shoes with price tags below $100 qualify.

Iowa
The first Friday and Saturday in August are Iowa’s Annual Sales Tax Holiday. In 2019, that will be on August 2 and August 3. Clothing and shows with sales prices below $100 will be tax-free.

Maryland
Maryland holds two sales tax holidays each year. Between February 16 and 18, 2019, energy star products (like appliances) are tax-free.
Between August 11 and August 17, 2019, clothing and shoes below $100 are not subject to sales tax as well as the first $40 or any backpack or bookbag.

Massachusetts
Massachusetts typically has the largest sales tax holiday, expected between August 10 and August 11, 2019. Nearly all tangible personal property with sales prices at or below $2,500 qualify. There are a few exceptions, including, but not limited to, telecommunications services, tobacco or marijuana products, motor vehicles, motorboats, meals, and gasoline.

Mississippi
Mississippi is another state with two tax holidays. On July 26 and July 27, 2019, the state holds their Annual Clothing Sales Tax Holiday. Clothing and shoes below $100 are tax-free.
Then, on August 30 and September 1, 2019, during the Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday, a variety of hunting supplies, including certain firearms and ammunition, are not subject to sales tax.

Missouri
In preparation for the school year, Missouri holds an annual sales tax holiday. The following items are not subject to sales tax:
  • Clothing – $100 or less per item
  • Computers and Peripherals – up to $1,500 in value
  • Software – up to $350 per item
  • School Supplies – up to $50 per purchase
  • Graphing Calculators – up to $150

New Mexico
August 2 through August 4 is New Mexico’s sales tax holiday. The following items are exempt from sales tax:
  • Clothing and Shoes – less than $100 per item
  • Computers – up to $1,000
  • Computer Equipment – up to $500
  • School Supplies – less than $30 per item

Ohio
Ohio will hold a tax-free event between August 2 and August 4, 2019. The following items are eligible:
  • Clothing – up to $75 per item
  • School Supplies – up to $20 per item
  • Instructional Materials – up to $20 per item

Oklahoma
During Oklahoma’s sales tax holiday, scheduled for August 2 through August 4, 2019, clothing and shoes sold for under $100 are not subject to sales tax.

South Carolina
The South Carolina annual sales tax holiday is set for August 2 through August 4, 2019. It features one of the largest lists of eligible goods. The following items qualify:
  • Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories
  • School Supplies
  • Computers, Peripherals, and Software
  • Sheets, Blankets, Towels, Shower Curtains, Bath Mats, Pillows, and Other Linens

Tennessee
Between July 26 and July 28, Tennessee holds their tax-free event. Here is a list of eligible items:
  • Clothing – up to $100 per item
  • School Supplies – up to $100 per item
  • Computers – up to $1,500 per item

Texas
Texas has more tax-free holidays than any other state, typically hosting three each year. The first, set for April 27 through April 29, 2019, covers:
  • Generators – less than $3,000 per item
  • Emergency Ladders and Hurricane Shutters – less than $300 per item
  • Other Qualifying Emergency Preparedness Supplies – less than $75 per item
Then, between May 25 and May 27, 2019, you can get these items tax-free as long as they are Energy Star rated, up to the limits:
  • Air Conditioners – up to $6,000
  • Refrigerators – up to $2,000
  • Ceiling Fans
  • Incandescent and Fluorescent Light Bulbs
  • Washing Machines
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Dishwashers
  • Programmable Thermostats
Finally, from August 9 and August 11, 2019, the back to school event makes the following tax-free:
  • Clothing and Shoes – less than $100 per item
  • Backpacks – less than $100 per item
  • School Supplies – less than $100 per item

Virginia
From August 2 through August 4, Virginia’s sales tax holiday makes a slew of items tax-free. Here is a quick overview of the qualifying items and their limits:
  • Clothing and Shoes – up to $100 per item
  • School Supplies – up to $20 per item
  • Portable Generators – up to $1,000 per item
  • Gas-Powered Chainsaws – up to $350 per item
  • Chainsaw Accessories – up to $60 per item
  • Other Hurricane Preparedness Goods – up to $60 per item
  • Energy Star and WaterSense Products – up to $2,500 per item

Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s five-day tax holiday will occur from August 1 through August 5, 2019. The following items are eligible:
  • Clothing – up to $75 per item
  • Computer Supplies – up to $250 per item
  • Computers – up to $750 per item
  • School Supplies – up to $75 per item

It’s important to note that some states, like Florida, have held tax-free weekends in the past. However, they have not officially announced or approved an event for 2019 as of this writing.

Additionally, some of the information above is based on sales tax holiday patterns and not official announcements, as they have not been made as of this writing. However, since the states traditionally follow a specific schedule, the dates are expected to remain accurate.

Do you have big plans for the 2019 tax holidays? Let us know in the comments below.

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