Virginia Tax Holiday is October 5–8: Conserve Energy and Save Money

Attention Virginia shoppers! Virginia will hold a sales tax holiday October 5–8, 2007. During this four-day period, purchases of products meeting the Energy Star qualifications, such as certain energy-efficient appliances, will be exempt from the Virginia sales tax. Eligible products must be priced at $2,500 or less per item and purchased for noncommercial home or personal use.

The Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants (VSCPA) offers the following cost-cutting strategies to help consumers live energy-efficiently and save money:

1. Change furnace filters regularly. Dirty, clogged filters can force your system to run longer, use more energy or break down. You should replace the filters monthly for maximum benefits.

2. Save on gas by packing light. Every 100 pounds in the trunk decreases your fuel mileage by 1 to 2 percent. Avoid a roof rack if at all possible; it can cut down your mileage by up to 5 percent. And always remember to keep your car in good shape (tires properly inflated, regular oil changes, etc.)

3. If you have a dishwasher, turn off the dry cycle and air dry your dishes instead! This can save you up to 1 percent on your energy bill. Or, for more savings, wash the dishes by hand.

4. Do your laundry efficiently. Use the warm or cold water setting to wash your clothes instead of the hot, and always use cold water to rinse them. Whenever possible, line dry your clothes or hang them on a rack.

5. Be energy-efficient by turning down the thermostat and turning off the lights.

6. Driving the speed limit saves you money! The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that for every 5 mph you drive over 60 mph, the decreased fuel efficiency is equivalent to paying a 20-cent surcharge on each gallon. That adds up!

The VSCPA offers these consumer tips as part of its award-winning financial literacy initiative called Financial Fitness. Through community outreach and education, the campaign is part of a national effort of the CPA profession to educate and increase knowledge of all Americans — from schoolchildren to retirees — on topics related to wise money management and fiscal responsibility. Consumers can find more money management tips and free resources at www.FinancialFitness.org.   

For more information about Virginia tax holidays, visit the Virginia Department of Taxation Web site.