Save Money on School Supplies

It seems like each year the school supply list grows in length and the items grow in price. With some planning and organization, you can save money and time getting the school supplies your kids need.

1, Plan early. If possible get a copy of your child's school supply list at the end of the current school to start shopping early. Be sure to watch stores in the places you visit over summer vacation.

2. Back to school Sales. Shop back to school sales for the best prices of the season. Some major retails have some items as low as one cent.

3. Buy extras. Buy extra school supplies while on sale. Don't forget to store school supplies in a common location in your home so they can easily be found. Any extras can be saved for the next school year.

4. Barter or exchange. Have supplies your kids don't need as they move up through the grades? Barter with a friend or neighbor for supplies your child does need.

5. School supply cart. Buy from the school supply cart. Many schools buy in large quantities and then sell for little to no profit. A big savings to you.

6. Free supplies. Collect Freebies. Many businesses give away pencils, rulers and more. As long as they are child friend advertising, put them to use. If your school does not allow advertising items, they can be used at home.

7. Buy in bulk. Buy in bulk those items you will use again and again. Or get with a neighbor or friend to make a bulk purchase and split the cost.

8. Tax Free Shopping. Many states now offer a tax free weekend, usually around the first part of August. Take advantage of this in buying schools supplies, clothes, computers and more. Check with your local state to determine what qualifies and when your tax free shopping time is.

9. Clearance sales. My personal favorite! The best time to catch school items on clearance is about 2-3 weeks after school has started. But keep your eyes open as clearance items are like a treasure hunt...you never know when you will stumble across a sale!

10. Don't forget your list! Carry your child's supply list with you on regular shopping trips to take advantage of sales, clearance sales and for finding those hard to find items.