Virginia shoppers will have an opportunity to save money on select items during the upcoming sales tax holiday, which runs from Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3. During this period, purchases of qualifying school supplies, clothing and footwear, hurricane and emergency preparedness products, as well as Energy Star and WaterSense items will be exempt from sales tax.
Julia Hammond, State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) in Virginia, encouraged residents to support local businesses during the event. “This weekend is a chance for Virginia families to save money and support the small businesses in their communities,” Hammond said. “Local businesses are the heart of Virginia’s economy. They create jobs, help fund schools, and give back through donations and sponsorships.”
Hammond also emphasized the economic benefits of shopping locally: “When you shop at small businesses, more of your money stays in Virginia,” she said. “For every dollar spent at a local store, about 67 cents stays in the commonwealth. That same dollar also adds another 50 cents to the economy through paychecks and local suppliers. It all adds up to more jobs and stronger communities.”
The sales tax holiday comes as many small businesses across Virginia face ongoing economic challenges. The most recent NFIB Small Business Economic Trends report shows that national optimism among small business owners dipped slightly in June but remains just above its long-term average. Many owners continue to express concerns about taxes, excess inventory levels, and inconsistent consumer demand.
“Shopping at small businesses this weekend can help Virginia’s economy stay strong,” Hammond said. “When we help small businesses, we help everyone.”
