Attention all Louisiana shoppers! The state's newest sales tax holiday has begun. This one-time event takes place on November 20 and 21 in the Pelican State. It's designed to provide tax relief for Louisiana residents recovering from Hurricane Laura, Hurricane Delta, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the sales tax holiday, the state's 4.45% sales tax will not be charged on the first $2,500 of most consumer (not business) purchases. This is just in time for bargain hunters shopping for the holidays. Be aware, though, that motor vehicle sales and purchases of meals (either to eat-in or to-go) don't count and will still be charged sales tax.
The tax exemption generally applies to layaway sales and to purchases for products that won't be delivered until after November 21. Items purchased during the sales tax holiday period with "rain checks" also qualify for exemption, regardless of when the rain check is issued. However, a rain check issued during the exemption period doesn't qualify for the sales tax break if the item sold is actually purchased after November 21.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
No tax is due if you buy something during the sales tax holiday and exchange it later for an essentially identical item of a different size, color, etc. However, sales tax is due if you return something after the sales tax holiday and receive credit on the purchase of a different item.
For 60 days after the sales tax holiday, no credit or refund of sales tax will be given if you return an item unless (1) you provide a receipt or invoice showing that the state sales tax was paid, or (2) the retailer has sufficient documentation showing that the tax was paid on the item purchased.
For a complete list of 2020 sales tax holidays in Louisiana and throughout the country, see Sales Tax Holidays in 2020. Happy shopping!
-
Here's How To Get Organized And Work For YourselfWhether you’re looking for a side gig or planning to start your own business, it has never been easier to strike out on your own. Here is our guide to navigating working for yourself.
-
How to Manage Risk With Diversification"Don't put all your eggs in one basket" means different things to different investors. Here's how to manage your risk with portfolio diversification.
-
What Is a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)?Tax Breaks A QCD can lower your tax bill while meeting your charitable giving goals in retirement. Here’s how.
-
New Law Delivers Tax Breaks to Natural Disaster Victims, But Is It Enough?Tax Relief The legislation provides critical tax relief to thousands of natural disaster victims across the country.
-
On the Naughty List: Holiday Tax Scams to Look Out ForTax Tips The IRS says scammers are on the prowl for your financial information. Know the signs so you don't fall victim.
-
Retirement Abroad? Three Countries Without Inheritance TaxRetirement Taxes These 2025 top-retiree-friendly countries have an added benefit: potential tax savings for you and your heirs.
-
Five Tax-Savvy Ways To Donate This Holiday SeasonCharitable Donations Food pantries, toy drives, and animal sanctuaries are popular ways to support others year-round.
-
Tax Pros: Is Someone Fraudulently Filing Returns With Your PTIN?Tax Filing An unmonitored preparer tax identification number (PTIN) can lead to serious issues.
-
Can Tariffs Make Childcare More Affordable?Tariffs President-elect Trump suggested tariffs can address the childcare crisis, but economists are doubtful.
-
Are You a Renter? You Could Save on TaxesTax Breaks With these tax savings at your fingertips, rent may be more affordable
