Back to School: How To Buy School Supplies And Save Money

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Many schools do not have the budget to afford project and homework related supplies for students. Parents are often asked to buy extra school supplies for their children. This can pose a problem for families who are on a tight budget. Find out how to save money and get the supplies your child needs with these shopping tips.

If you belong to a one of the many stores chains, such as Costco or BJ, you can load up on supplies by buying in bulk throughout the year, especially when there are sales and coupons offered.

Office supply stores usually have summer sales. They also give-a-way supplies such as calculators, as well as discounts if you spend a certain a certain amount. In fact, you can save lots of money by purchasing the store brand of supplies, especially paper, pencils, pens and other items needed for school. Also, most office supply stores offer recycled paper as well, and is very inexpensive to purchase.

In some states, there are certain days or perhaps a week in which school supplies are tax free. Consider buying just a few basic items to last your child through the first few days or weeks of school. When the “tax free” period arrives, buy enough basic supplies to last for the better part of the year. This is also a great time to save money on the more expensive items, especially if you need to purchase computers or programs.

There are 99 cent store chains which also have some school supplies available. They have incidental items as well which can be purchased, such as: tissues, handy wipes, zip lock lunch bags, school bags, and other items wherein you can save quite a bit of money.

Another item which you can buy ahead of time are the white boards used for exhibiting art work, science projects, or used for any subject where the student has to showcase his or her work. These are expensive items, and while some schools have a budget for them, others do not. You may need three or four, depending on your child’s curriculum.

If you have purchased any school supplies online, you will no doubt receive emails from office supply stores offering $25.00 or more discounts on purchases of $100.00 to $150.00. In addition, when new chains of office supply stores open, you may also receive a circular in the mail or in your Sunday newspaper offering a discount and free items if you visit their store.

Supplies are expensive, and taking advantage of every promotion, sale, and coupon offered will save you a great deal of time and money.

To learn more, check out the Mom’s Talk eBook’s Guide to Family Budgeting - Step-by-step guide to help you establish a workable budget.