FRANKFORT – Illinois residents will see a 10-day reduced state sales tax holiday on school supplies starting today, thanks to State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

Hastings (D-Frankfort) spearheaded a bipartisan law that will help families and teachers see lower back-to-school shopping costs.

The law lowers the state tax rate on school supplies and eligible clothes and footwear from 6.25% down to 1.25% for 10 days from Aug. 5 to Aug. 14, 2022.

“As a nod to our working parents, guardians and teachers in Illinois, lowering the tax rate on school supplies removes a burden when preparing for the academic year,” said Hastings. “It’s my hope that by instituting a tax holiday, we can help relieve families and educators of some financial costs in order to prepare students for the upcoming school year.”

Hastings’ initiative also increases the educator’s tax credit to up to $500 for out-of-pocket expenses for classroom supplies.

“Our educators dedicate their lives to our children,” Hastings said. “This is a small way for the state to help alleviate some of the financial burdens they face as our teachers get ready for the new school year.”

Hastings urges residents across the Southland to shop and think local as they embark on their school shopping and throughout the year.

“As you head out to take advantage of these savings and make sure you shop and think local,” Hastings said “Our local businesses make vital investments in our communities and now more than ever it is imperative that we support them.”

Public Act 102-0700 took effect with the governor’s signature on April 19, 2022 and was fully implemented with the Fiscal Year 2023 state budget on July 1, 2022.