As Central Illinois families finish up their back-to-school shopping, there is a little financial help available this week.
Illinois’ 2026 back-to-school sales-tax holiday is underway through Sunday, August 16.
During the temporary tax break, the state sales-tax rate on qualifying school supplies is reduced from 6.25 percent to 1.25 percent. There is no $125 price limit on qualifying school supplies.
Certain clothing and footwear purchases also qualify for the reduced rate, as long as the item costs less than $125.
The Illinois Department of Revenue says qualifying purchases still may be subject to local sales taxes, so shoppers should not expect every item to be completely tax-free.
For families still working through their school supply lists, the timing could provide some savings on items such as notebooks, folders, pencils and other qualifying classroom supplies.
But financial experts generally recommend that families avoid buying more than they need simply because something is on sale or receiving a tax break.
One way to stretch the back-to-school budget is to start with the school’s actual supply list, check what is already at home and prioritize necessities before purchasing extras.
Families can also compare prices between stores and online retailers, look for store-brand alternatives and consider purchasing some items later in the school year when they are needed.
For Illinois families, the current sales-tax reduction is temporary — and it ends Sunday.
So if you still have some back-to-school shopping to finish, this weekend could be a good time to check the list, compare prices and save where you can.
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