Tax Holiday for Energy-Efficient Appliances Returns to Virginia October 11-14

If your old appliances are on their last legs, it’s a great time to replace them with energy-efficient products while saving some money.  Virginia’s seventh Energy Star and WaterSense Sales Tax Holiday returns Friday, Oct. 11, and lasts through Monday, Oct. 14.

Energy Star and WaterSense products are better for the environment, and have the added benefit of lowering your home’s energy bills.

Each qualifying product must cost $2,500 or less, have either an Energy Star or WaterSense label affixed, and be purchased for personal or noncommercial use.  Qualifying Energy Star products include air conditioners, ceiling fans, washing machines, dishwashers, dehumidifiers, refrigerators and compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). WaterSense-labeled bathroom sink faucets, faucet accessories, toilets, showerheads, urinals and landscape irrigation controllers will also be tax-exempt. Certain used Energy Star and WaterSense items will also qualify for tax-free status during the four-day exemption period.

 “If there’s one thing most of us can relate to this time of year, it’s a desire to lower our energy bills,” said Governor Bob McDonnell.  “Not only is it a good way to save some money, it’s also good for the environment.  For the past several years, Virginians have had the opportunity to save money by replacing their old, outdated appliances with Energy Star or WaterSense products. Even if you’re not in the market for new appliances, everyone needs light bulbs – and CFLs are included in the holiday. I urge everyone who needs these products to go out and take advantage of this long money-saving weekend.”

The Department of Taxation has posted guidelines, frequently asked questions, and a list of approved Energy Star and WaterSense items on its website at tax.virginia.gov.

Online purchases of qualifying Energy Star and WaterSense products will also be exempt from the sales tax as long as the orders are placed during the Oct. 11-14 exemption period and the sellers have the items available for immediate shipment.

In addition to exempting certain Energy Star and WaterSense products from the sales tax during the four-day tax holiday, retailers may also offer non-exempt merchandise sales-tax free.  Retailers who choose to do this must pay the tax themselves to the Department of Taxation.