While lawmakers are discussing the possibility of a personal income tax cut in West Virginia, the West Virginia State Tax Department is reminding residents there is another tax break of sorts fast-approaching.

From midnight Friday, Aug. 5, until 11:59 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, the 2022 Sales Tax Holiday will be in effect for those buying back-to-school supplies, clothing and electronics.

As always when dealing with the government, there are exceptions. For example, clothing — on items of $125 or less — is tax exempt during this time; but clothing accessories such as bags or hair accessories are not exempt. School supplies of $50 or less per item, school instructional material of $20 or less per item, laptop and tablet computers of $500 or less per item and sports equipment of $150 or less per item are all tax exempt.

But sports or recreational equipment, such as sport-specific shoes, shin guards or goggles, are NOT exempt. Neither is protective equipment such as breathing masks, hearing protectors, face shields … the kinds of things a student might need in technical center classes.

Meanwhile, wedding apparel and diapers ARE exempt, as long as each item costs no more than $125.

Taxpayers might wonder who in the world came up with the list and its exceptions. For some clarity, more information is available here.

Complicated it may be, but it is an opportunity to save a little money; and one savvy shoppers can wring to the fullest.

Don’t miss the chance to keep some of your hard earned money while doing some very necessary shopping this time of year.