Maryland’s Tax‑Free Week Is Around the Corner
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to stock up on professional attire or essential business supplies, Maryland’s annual Tax‑Free Week is your sign to act. This is more than just a summer shopping holiday—it’s a chance for notaries and other local professionals to save on the tools they use every day while supporting Maryland businesses.
📅 What Is Tax‑Free Week in Maryland?
Tax‑Free Week 2025 runs from Sunday, August 10 through Saturday, August 16. During this time, qualifying purchases in Maryland are exempt from the state’s 6% sales tax. The exemption applies to:
Clothing and footwear priced under $100 per item
The first $40 of each backpack or bookbag purchase
⚖️ Maryland Law Supporting Tax-Free Week
The sales tax holiday is legally authorized under Maryland regulation COMAR 03.06.01.37(B), which states that retail sales tax is not due on clothing or footwear priced at $100 or less per item, if purchased during the 7-day period beginning at 12:01 a.m. on the second Sunday in August through that Saturday.
If a single item is priced above $100, the exemption does not apply at all. Discounts that reduce an item’s taxable price below $100 still enable exemption—but manufacturer coupons reimbursed by third parties may not qualify.
You can view the official law text on the Maryland General Assembly site here:
👉 COMAR 03.06.01.37 – Tax‑Free Week regulation
👔 Why This Matters for Notaries and Service-Based Professionals
Your appearance and efficiency impact your credibility. Whether meeting clients at their homes, attending closings, or setting up at events, this week is ideal for:
Upgrading your professional wardrobe
Buying comfortable footwear under the $100 threshold
Picking up document organizers, bags, or briefcases for fieldwork (remember: only first $40 of backpack/bookbag is exempt)
🏬 Where to Shop: Spotlight on Local Maryland Office Supply Vendors
In addition to big-box retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon, consider supporting these Maryland-based office supply suppliers—many offer competitive pricing, personalized service, and delivery options that beat national chains:
🔗 Benjamin Office Supply & Services, Inc. – Rockville, MD: next-day delivery, bulk pricing, and an expansive catalog.
🔗 Ruduloph Office Supplies – Elkridge, MD: office supplies and furniture with tailored service.
🔗 Total Office Group, LLC – Waldorf, MD: full-service supply, printing, furniture, and shipping.
Supporting these local vendors not only pumps money back into Maryland’s economy, but purchases may also lead to better service, flexible ordering/payment (net 30 accounts), and often team discounts or delivery perks—especially if you’re placing bulk or repeat orders.
📄 Need to Know What Qualifies?
For a complete breakdown of eligibility rules—like item definitions, price limits, and how exchanges or layaways are treated—check the FAQ from the Maryland Comptroller:
👉 Click to download the Tax‑Free Week FAQ PDF
And you can also visit the official Maryland Comptroller Programs Page:
🔗 marylandcomptroller.gov/about/comptroller/programs.html
🛒 Final Money-Saving Tips
Only items meeting the under $100 per piece rule qualify—verify the tag and learn which coupon types count. Ask local suppliers for quotes—local rates often beat big-box pricing, especially with delivery included.
Make purchases between August 10 and 16 for full exemption eligibility.
Don’t forget to save receipts for your expense records or business reimbursements.
Inquire about seasonal or volume discounts that can further reduce costs below the exemption thresholds.
Maryland Notaries in Action hopes this overview helps you shop smarter, save more, and support Maryland’s local businesses during Tax‑Free Week. Stay professional, stay prepared, and stay supported by your local community.
