Even sensible families can find their budget stretched by back-to-school shopping. This year’s budget may change from last year as the inflation rate rises and falls, but saving money on school shopping is still within reach.

Homeschool parents must supply their children with items and classroom supplies that are otherwise provided freely to teachers at public schools. When back-to-school shopping K’tari Mitchell-Fletcher, an Alabama mother who home-schools her children, encourages parents to look for sales, especially for higher-priced items like printer ink cartridges. It is also advantageous to plan to avoid buying all items at the same time.

State Tax Holiday

Another cost-saving tactic families can use is to save up and shop during the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday. In Alabama, the weekend begins on the third Friday in July and ends at midnight the following Sunday. The Alabama Department of Revenue provides a complete list of exempt items. If you do not live in Alabama, find out if your state offers a tax-saving holiday.

Other Cost-Saving Tips

Budgeting for essential items may be stressful this time of year, but here are some tips on how to save your hard-earned cash.

• Work with your kids to prepare a budget and only purchase items they will need at school.
• Put money aside all year for back-to-school expenses and encourage your kids to contribute if they can. This way they can participate and better understand what items cost.
• Look for back-to-school sales, including special coupons and discounts. Be sure to do comparison shopping, even if using coupons or discounts.
• Bring your budget when you shop and encourage your children to shop within the budget.

In addition, Alabama Extension offers these online resources:

• Take Control: Financial Planning
• Surviving the High Cost of Living
• Striving for Financial Wellness

Or visit www.aces.edu/calendar to find a money management program online or in-person near you.