Starting tomorrow, Friday, and ending on Saturday, school uniforms and supplies will be sold without the 11.5% sales and use tax (IVU) in Puerto Rico. According to Edith Tapia, a certified financial coach and founder of Cuponeandopr.net, this can generate significant savings for parents and teachers. For example, a $100 purchase of uniforms or supplies would result in an $11.50 savings.
The Department of Hacienda has announced that uniforms, shoes, and school supplies, including backpacks and lunchboxes, will be exempt from IVU. Additionally, art, music, and instructional materials such as clay, paints, brushes, sketchbooks, and musical instruments will also be tax-free. It's worth noting that books, both printed and electronic, and notebooks are exempt from IVU year-round.
To take advantage of the tax-free sales, Tapia shared several recommendations, including making purchases during the designated period and ensuring that payment and delivery of items are made during this time for layaway sales.