Back-to-school shopping can break the bank, but relief is in sight this weekend. It's a tax-free holiday weekend in both Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Fort Smith teachers and students said this gets them ready for this coming school year.
"I’ll be buying a few things that they need on their school supply list and probably an outfit for first day of school," said parent, Contrel Mayes.
One local teacher said the weekend will not only benefits his students, but teachers too.
"It also helps us get supplies that we need for our students at a very good deal,” said teacher, Scott Burns. “It just helps prepare us for our year."
A Walmart employee said customers can save almost 10 percent this weekend.
"What we’re seeing from customers is they come in and they are able to save that seven, eight and nine percent sales tax,” said Kory Lundberg.
"The savings could add up to where their child can get another shirt or maybe even more school supplies for the kids classroom for a child that maybe can't even afford them this year."
Some stores in town are bringing in their whole staff to prepare for tax-free weekend to make sure that their customers can get the supplies they need.
"It’s going to be kind of nuts," said Plato's Closet employee, Chloe Williams.
"We are going to have our whole staff here. it was pretty crazy last year, so we are preparing for another big weekend this year."
There are some exceptions to the tax-free weekend.
“In Arkansas, it doesn't cover electronics, hardware, software, things like that,” said Lundberg.
Oklahoma’s tax-free weekend kicks off (August 2). Arkansas begins Saturday (August 3).
To be able to take advantage of the Sales Tax Holiday, your purchase must be no more than a $100. For complete details and rules, click here.