Families Take Advantage Of Month-Long VAT Tax Holiday

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THE BAHAMAS – The Department of Inland Revenue has announced the official start date for the back-to-school Value Added Tax (VAT) holiday. This year, several items are on the list, and some business owners in Grand Bahama report that parents have already started purchasing much-needed items for their children.

The back-to-school VAT holiday began on Sunday, August 18th, and will end on Saturday, September 14th, giving parents about four weeks to purchase supplies.

A wide range of items is included on this year’s list, from personal computers, including electronic book readers, laptops, desktops, and tablets priced under $3,000 per unit, to school essentials like pens, pencils, notebooks, and books.

Supervisor Mary Thompson at H & L School Supplies in Grand Bahama encourages parents to take advantage of the savings.

According to the VAT-free list, parents can also get hair accessories for their children, excluding hair extensions, wigs, hats, and caps. Miscellaneous items like disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizers, and face masks are also VAT-free.

At one of the oldest department stores on Grand Bahama, Park N Shop, officials are looking forward to the month-long discount.

Jon Wes Shoe Store, located in Grand Bahama and New Providence, offers a variety of footwear for students, and the VAT holiday is seen as a win for both parents and business owners.

To read the full list, you can visit www.inlandrevenue.finance.gov.bs.