Computers Make the List of Tax-Free Back-to-School Purchases in Florida

In Florida, computers and other digital devices have been added to the list of back-to-school gear that parents can purchase free of sales tax.

Each year, the state of Florida gives parents a tax break on school supplies and clothing for a single weekend only. This year, that list includes a personal computer. According to the Florida Department of Revenue, "'Personal computer' means an electronic device that accepts information in digital or similar form and manipulates such information for a result based on a sequence of instructions. The term includes any electronic book reader, laptop, desktop, handheld, tablet, or tower computer but does not include cellular telephones, video game consoles, digital media receivers, or devices that are not primarily designed to process data."

This also covers accessories, such as mice, trackpads, software (non-recreational), monitors, and various other peripherals and devices.

Florida consumers can purchase personal computers and accessories costing up to $750 per item tax-free over the course of the event.

Other tax-free items include general school supplies (up to $15 per item) and clothing (up to $75 per item).

The 2013 tax-free weekend in Florida will take place Aug. 2–4, 2013. Complete details can be found in the Florida Department of Revenue's PDF guide.

About the Author

David Nagel is the former editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal, STEAM Universe, and Spaces4Learning. A 30-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art, marketing, media, and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrnagel/ .


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