Maryland tax-free week 2026 is approaching, and Dollar General has introduced new back-to-school deals across the state. Families can combine selected store promotions with Maryland’s sales tax holiday, reports the Baltimore Chronicle.
The promotion was first reported by FOX45 News. Official eligibility rules are available from the Comptroller of Maryland.
Dollar General back-to-school deals in Maryland
Dollar General operates nearly 180 stores across Maryland. Its seasonal range includes notebooks, backpacks, crayons, markers, folders and writing supplies.
Several advertised prices target families buying complete school lists on limited budgets:
| Product | Advertised deal |
|---|---|
| Crayola 24-count crayons | $0.50 |
| iMagine school glue | $0.50 |
| Crayola colored pencils | $1 |
| Crayola markers | $1.50 |
| Pilot G2 gel pens | $3.50 |
| Backpacks | $5 |
Poly folders cost 2 for $1 when shoppers purchase 2. Selected notebooks and journals are buy one, get one 50% off.
These are retailer promotions, not automatic tax exemptions. Shoppers should check each item before assuming Maryland sales tax will be removed.

What qualifies during Maryland tax-free week 2026?
The holiday runs from August 9 at 12:01 a.m. through August 15 at 11:59 p.m. Eligible clothing and footwear must cost $100 or less per item.
The official rules cover:
- qualifying clothing priced at $100 or less;
- qualifying shoes and boots priced at $100 or less;
- the first $40 of a backpack or bookbag purchase.
Ordinary stationery, pens, crayons and glue are not included in Maryland’s statutory exemption. Their savings come from Dollar General’s listed prices or promotions.
A $5 backpack would fall entirely within the eligible backpack allowance. Accessories such as handbags, jewelry and watches remain taxable.
Teacher discount and Instagram sweepstakes
Verified teachers can receive 30% off qualifying stationery products through September 7. Dollar General is also running a Teacher Social Media Sweepstakes through August 15.
The company plans to award 20 educators a $250 Dollar General gift card. Entries are accepted through Dollar General’s Instagram account, with winners scheduled for August 22.
Teachers should verify eligibility and promotional conditions before purchasing. Store inventory and participation may vary by location.
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