🛍️ Tax Holidays You Didn’t Know About: Saving Big in Surprising Ways

From tax-free weekends to year-end strategies, make your wallet a little happier!

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Welcome back, Future Funder!

Wouldn’t it be amazing to keep more of your hard-earned cash without drastic lifestyle changes? The good news: you can—thanks to tax holidays and smart year-end tax strategies.

While tax-free weekends for back-to-school shopping are well-known, other savings opportunities often fly under the radar. Pair that with year-end tax maneuvers, and you could reduce next April’s tax bill significantly.

Bon a petit! 🧑‍🍳

🍽️ Main Course: 💰 Tax Holidays and Year-End Savings Strategies

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Tax savings opportunities are everywhere if you know where to look:

  • Tax holidays provide quick, easy ways to save on purchases.

  • Year-end strategies help reduce taxable income and maximize refunds.

Let’s dive into lesser-known tax holidays, family-friendly strategies, and actionable tips to ease your financial management.

🛒 Tax Holidays You Didn’t Know About

Beyond back-to-school savings, these tax holidays could surprise you:

1. Energy Efficiency and Water Conserving Tax Holidays

Save on appliances that help the environment and your wallet.

  • What Qualifies: Energy-efficient refrigerators, dishwashers, air conditioners, ceiling fans, and certain types of light bulbs (e.g., incandescent and fluorescent).

  • Where to Find Them: States like Texas and Florida host “Energy Star Sales Tax Holidays.” These breaks align with seasonal shopping trends.

Pro Tip: Stack these holidays with retailer discounts for even greater savings.

2. Clothing and Footwear Tax Holidays

Expand your wardrobe without the extra cost.

  • What Qualifies: Retail items like clothing and footwear.

  • Example States:

    • Massachusetts: Includes items under $2,500, excluding certain products. In 2024, the holiday occurred on August 10-11.

    • Tennessee: Covers clothing items priced under $100.

Perfect For: Families looking to save on back-to-school essentials or refresh their wardrobes.

(Image credit: Tax Foundation)

3. Hunting and Outdoor Equipment Tax Breaks

Gear up for outdoor adventures with tax-free savings.

  • What Qualifies: Hunting supplies, including firearms, ammunition, archery equipment, and camping gear.

  • Example States:

    • Mississippi and Louisiana host tax-free weekends for these items.

  • Items Often Covered: Hearing protection, holsters, belts, slings, and more.

Fun Fact: These holidays align with the hunting seasons and cater to outdoor enthusiasts and sportspeople.

(Image credit: Tax Foundation)

4. Disaster Preparedness Tax-Free Days

Prepare for emergencies without breaking the bank.

  • What Qualifies: Essential supplies like batteries, generators, first-aid kits, and tarpaulin sheeting.

  • Example States:

    • Florida: In 2025, the state will waive sales tax on items such as:

      • Portable generators priced up to $3,000.

      • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors up to $70.

      • Tarpaulin sheeting and fire extinguishers up to $100.

      • Non-electric coolers up to $60.

    • Virginia and Texas also participate.

When It Happens: Often scheduled before hurricane or wildfire seasons.

(Image credit: Tax Foundation)

📈 End-of-Year Tax Savings Techniques

As the year winds down, take these actions to save big on taxes:

1. Tax-Loss Harvesting

Offset your investment gains by selling underperforming stocks or funds.

  • Why It Works: Losses can reduce your taxable income from profitable assets.

  • Who Should Use It: Investors with both gains and losses in taxable accounts.

Key Limits: You can offset up to $3,000 in net losses annually. Additional losses can be carried over to future tax years.

2. Max Out Retirement Contributions

Boost your retirement savings while lowering taxable income.

Pro Tip: Every dollar you contribute reduces your taxable income while preparing you for the future.

3. Use Your FSA or HSA Funds

Take full advantage of healthcare savings accounts before the year ends.

  • FSAs: Many Flexible Spending Accounts are “use-it-or-lose-it,” requiring you to spend funds by December 31 on eligible expenses like medical supplies, eyeglasses, or medications.

  • HSAs: Health Savings Accounts roll over annually, but contributing additional funds before December 31 reduces this year’s taxable income.

Bonus: Funds in an HSA can be invested for future emergencies, combining tax savings with potential growth.

4. Make Charitable Donations

Giving back benefits both others and your tax bill.

  • Contributions to qualified organizations—whether in cash, household goods, or stocks—are deductible.

  • Documentation: Keep detailed records of all donations, including receipts and valuations for non-cash items.

Pro Tip: Donating appreciated assets like stocks can maximize tax efficiency by avoiding capital gains taxes.

5. Prepay Certain Expenses

Accelerate deductions by paying January expenses before December 31.

  • Examples: Mortgage interest, property taxes, and medical bills.

  • Restrictions: The IRS permits deductions for prepaid expenses, but complex rules apply. Be cautious and consult a tax advisor if you’re unsure.

Note: Watch out for prepayment penalties, especially for mortgage-related payments.

🌟 Key Takeaways

  • Tax Holidays = Hidden Gems: Energy-efficient appliances, disaster prep supplies, and more could qualify for savings.

  • Year-End Moves Matter: Retirement contributions, tax-loss harvesting, and FSAs can optimize your financial picture.

  • Charitable Giving Benefits Everyone: Generosity toward charities can lower your tax bill.

  • Stay Informed: Rules vary by state, so plan accordingly.

Tax season might not be fun, but with these strategies, you can lighten the load—and maybe even feel triumphant come April.

Cheers to getting 1% better each week! 🎉

P.S. - Know about an amazing tax holiday or have a year-end savings tip? Tell us in the comments - we’d love to feature your insights in an upcoming newsletter!

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