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What items qualify for Illinois sales tax holiday

In the wake of the lackluster sales national chain stores posted for July, the Illinois sales tax holiday couldn’t have come at a better time.

Illinois’ first sales tax holiday, which starts Friday, waves the 5 percent state sales tax through Aug. 15, focusing on basic school supplies from backpacks to uniforms. With unemployment high and consumer spending stalling again, retailers are latching onto the deal with bargains in hopes of igniting a spark under increasingly reticent shoppers.
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No state sales tax on school gear starting Friday

Back-to-school bargain hunters will want to get their shopping lists ready.

Illinois’ sales-tax holiday starts Friday and continues through Aug. 15 for shoppers who are buying select items. Some Chicago-area retailers plan to open as early as 6 a.m. Friday in honor of the tax holiday.

Shoppers should remember that the sales-tax holiday means they won’t have to pay the 5 percent state sales tax on qualifying school supplies, clothing and shoes. County and city sales taxes remain in effect, and items such as computers and most sports equipment aren’t included.