Massachusetts 2023 sales tax holiday. Here’s what you need to know

BOSTON — Bay State residents have an opportunity to make larger purchases without worrying about paying the 6.25 percent sales tax when Massachusetts holds its annual tax holiday this weekend.

The sales tax holiday for 2023 will be held this weekend on Saturday, Aug. 12, and Sunday, Aug. 13, according to state officials. Most retail items of up to $2,500, purchased in Massachusetts for personal use on these two days, will be exempt from sales tax.

The sales tax holiday applies only to eligible retail items bought for personal use by residents. Purchases by corporations or other businesses and purchases by people for business remain taxable.

Here’s everything you need to know:

What retail items do not qualify for the sales tax holiday exemption?

The following items are still taxable and do not qualify for the sales tax holiday exemption:

Meals
Motor vehicles
Motorboats
Telecommunications services
Gas
Steam
Electricity
Tobacco products
Marijuana or marijuana products
Alcoholic beverages, and
Any single item whose price is more than $2,500.

What about Internet sales? Do those sales qualify for the sales tax holiday exemption?

Yes. An item will qualify for the sales tax holiday exemption if you order and pay for an eligible item over the Internet:

On the sales tax holiday and
During Eastern Daylight Time.

No sales tax is due on that purchase, even if delivery of the item occurs after the sales tax holiday weekend.

What about layaway sales?

Layaway sales do not qualify for the sales tax holiday exemption.

Do rentals qualify for the sales tax holiday?

If you rent an item that qualifies for the sales tax holiday exemption, you can use the sales tax holiday for rentals of up to 30 days.

However, the rental must be paid for in full on the holiday weekend.

Exempt rentals do not include:

motor vehicles or
motorboats.

Do all retailers have to participate in the sales tax holiday?

Yes. All businesses must take part in the sales tax holiday if the business:

Normally makes taxable sales of tangible property in Massachusetts or to purchasers in Massachusetts and
Is open for business on August 12 and 13.

What if I spend more than $2,500 on an item?

If you spend more than $2,500 on an item, the entire amount paid for the item is subject to sales tax, not just the amount that exceeds that threshold.

For more information, click here.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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