BBB Offers Back to School Shopping Tips

According to the National Retail Federation, nearly a quarter of families start shopping for school supplies two months before school starts. That means retail stores are putting

their best foot forward all summer long. Better Business Bureau has tips for consumers to take advantage of as many savings as possible.

A budget will help shape your shopping list and help limit purchases to only items you need. Knowing

your budget will also allow you to put money towards larger items or a special purchase.

Create a Budget

Create a Shopping List

Make a list by child or by store to avoid multiple trips. Clearpoint Credit

Counseling Solutions suggests starting by “shopping at home” for items you may have left over from last year.

Research Major Purchases

When shopping for laptops, calculators, dorm refrigerators and other large purchases, do your homework. Research the brands you’re

looking for to see what meets your expectations.

Check for Educational Discounts

Some computer and software companies offer discounts to

students and teachers with .edu email addresses. Some of these

can be quite substantial, so check around.

Shop Tax-Free

Some states offer a tax-free holiday specifically for the back-to-school shopping rush. To find out if your state participates, check out 2015

Sales Tax Holidays from the Federation of Tax Administrators.

Don’t Miss Sales

Compare prices between different retail stores, save coupons and be sure to redeem cash-back or rebate

offers. Sign-up for email alerts and download shopping apps for your favorite stores (RetailMeNot

is one popular coupon and discount app).

Buy in Bulk

Some schools ask parents to buy items that will be used by the entire class (tissues, hand sanitizer, etc.). Collaborate with other parents to shop in bulk. Parents of college students can also buy in bulk for

snacks, toiletries and other items for future “care packages.”

Save Your Receipts

You’ll need them if you want to make an exchange or

return an item. Remember some items are non-

refundable or have a 30-day return period.