In Aftermath of Severe Storms, Sales Tax Holiday Offers Chance to Prepare for Hurricane Season

Press Release

As the Commonwealth continues to recover from severe storms in April which spawned tornadoes across Virginia at the beginning and end of the month, with flooding in between, Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that Virginians could take steps to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season by taking advantage of Virginia's Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, which takes place May 25-31. The sales tax holiday provides an opportunity for citizens to buy what they need to prepare for possible tropical systems, while getting a break on the sales tax. During the sales tax holiday, items like batteries, flashlights, bottled water, and first aid kits, as well as certain bigger-ticket items like generators priced at $1,000 or less, will be exempt from the 5 percent state and local sales tax.

"Our hearts go out to those who were affected by April's storms," said Governor Bob McDonnell. "Now, as we prepare for hurricane season, we hope that the opportunity created by the General Assembly to buy storm-related items tax-free next week will serve as an impetus for citizens of the Commonwealth to make sure they are prepared for the months ahead."

During this seven-day period, retailers may also choose to pay the sales tax themselves on any nonexempt items and pass the 5 percent savings onto their customers. For a full list of eligible products, answers to frequently asked questions and guidelines for consumers and retailers, go to www.tax.virginia.gov and click on the "Sales Tax Holiday" logo at the top of the page.

Virginia also has two additional sales tax holidays - one for school supplies and clothing in August, and one for Energy Star and WaterSense products in October.

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