By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – Consumers will get a chance to enjoy a sales tax free week starting Monday. The state and Erie County will waive the full 8.25 percent sales tax on clothing and shoes costing less than $110.
While citizens get a tax-free shopping break, supporters say the initiative also provides a positive economic impact for many area retailers. This is the second promised sales tax free week for Erie County. One was held last August to help boost back-to-school buys.
It is important to note that there are many items not included in the tax exemption. For instance, jewelry, watches, and sporting items can not be purchased without paying sales tax. David Ayala, director of operations at Great Skate Hockey Supply on Sheridan Drive, says that includes ice skates, hockey helmets and other sporting equipment.
"Any headgear or any hard good would not be covered under the current exemption format," Ayala said. "But player jerseys and referee pants or in-line pants fall under the tax exemption."
Ayala says it is a bit disappointing not to be able to offer sales tax free ice skates to customers "especially at this time of year."
"It is mid-season for most players or any player involved in hockey," Ayala said. "It is an eight to ten month season and this could be critical to them."
Other items that will not be exempt, include hair accessories, purses, sunglasses -- unless prescription --wallets and wigs. But cash registers will not add up sales tax on items such as bridal gowns, beach wear, diapers, gloves, exercise outfits, neck ties and underwear.
The tax free week runs from this Monday through Sunday, February 1st. But in Niagara and Orleans Counties, and in the cities of Olean and Salamanca, the local share of the sales tax will remain in place next week.