School supplies not covered by tax-free weekend, but expert says you can still save money

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — It’s tax-free weekend in Oklahoma, but only clothing and shoe purchases under $100 qualify.

This leaves many parents wondering how to save money buying school supplies when tax-free weekend doesn’t cover it?

While options may seem limited this weekend, a savings group called RetailMeNot says there still are deals and sales you can take advantage of.

“Ways you can save money is looking for deals,” Shopping expert Emily Foley said. “Making sure that you’re doing a little groundwork. You want to make sure you do your research before you go and do your shopping.”

This weekend, Foley says back-to-school shoppers should look into what sales are best in store and online.

“Another really important thing is make sure you’re a rewards member wherever you are shopping. Most retailers actually save the biggest sales for their rewards program members.”

According to Foley, you can find some school supplies at Target for 25 cents.

“It’s a great place to really get all of those school supplies. Amazon is great because they also have deals on things like disinfecting wipes. You’re going to see a lot of teacher’s wish lists including things like paper towels, disinfecting wipes, calculators, that sort of thing. All of those have discounts at Amazon right now.”

If you’re wanting to buy something online, she recommends downloading a cash-back browser extension.

“It is the easiest way to make sure you’re getting the most up-to-date coupon code. You might know that there’s a 15% off coupon, but you might not realize that one of your items has a 40% off code. It layers all of those together, and really makes sure you’re getting the best possible deal.”

RetailMeNot has a webpage covering the best back-to-school deals.

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