Back to School tax holiday this weekend

Virginia is giving back-to-school shoppers a tax break.

The first weekend of August, qualifying school supplies, clothing and shoes will be exempt from sales tax.

The sales tax holiday happens each year. This year, it starts at midnight on Friday, August 5 and ends at midnight Sunday, August 7.

Certain school supplies that cost $20 or less and clothing and shoes that cost $100 or less are included.

Click here for the complete list of eligible items.

Computers are not considered school supply items, but during the tax holiday weekend, some stores include more than the state guidelines in their sale, such as computers.

Emily Pratt is the 'savings sleuth' who runs a bargain hunter website called Here's the Deal. She said shoppers can take advantage of the weekend in other ways, if they shop smart.

"You don't have to have a child going back to school to take advantage," said Pratt.

Here are Pratt's tips for getting deals over the sales tax holiday:

1. Check your paper and compare stores for bargains.
2. Make a list. Know what stores you're going to and plot your savings strategy.
3. Shop for purchases online.
4. Sign up for text and e-mail alerts to give you a heads up on sales.
5. Join Shopper Rewards Programs to reap cash back and receive money towards other purchases.

In Virginia, the tax rate is generally 5 percent of the price. The rate on sales of food for home consumption is 2.5 percent.

10 On Your Side needs your help get this year off to a great start for local students. Look for our Operation School Supplies collection boxes at all area Langley Federal Credit Union branches, Priority Automotive and several local Office Max locations.