Sales tax holiday begins today; some local jurisdictions opting out of local portion

Missouri's sales tax holiday kicks off today but shoppers won't be able to take advantage of city and county sales tax exemptions in certain jurisdictions.

While some cities and counties have chosen not to participate in the event that runs through Sunday at midnight, shoppers in those jurisdictions still will be eligible for an exemption of the state sales tax of 4.225 percent on eligible items. Savings are limited to school supplies, computer software, clothing, personal computers.

The holiday also has limits on the amount consumers can spend on items, such as clothing, which cannot exceed a taxable value of $100. School supplies are limited to $50 per purchase. Computer software can't surpass $350. Personal computers and computer-related devices must not exceed $3,500.

Cape Girardeau is among the 172 cities that opted to charge city sales taxes this weekend. During its June 1 meeting the Cape Girardeau City Council voted not to participate in the holiday and maintain the local 2.75 percent sales tax.

The council stated at the time that it could cost the city revenue at a time when revenue is down. This is the first time the city has not participated since the holiday was established in 2005.

Other Southeast Missouri cities not participating include Bloomfield, Doniphan, Hayti, Ironton, Kennett, Marble Hill, New Madrid, Poplar Bluff, Ste. Genevieve, West Plains and Willow Springs. The four area counties opting out of the holiday are Bollinger, Iron, Ste. Genevieve and Saint Francois.

For more information on the sales tax holiday visit dor.mo.gov/tax/business/sales/taxholiday/