Back-to-School! A Few Ways to Spend Less

It’s August already, and that means it’s back-to-school season for many students. Whether you're getting ready to start school yourself or helping someone else prepare, this time of year usually involves a lot of moving parts. Between juggling schedules, tracking down supply lists, and trying to stay on top of rising costs, getting ready for the transition back to school can be a lot.

Below are some ideas that might help as you are getting ready.
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Before You Shop

1. Take Inventory of What You Have and Need
   
   Before buying anything, take a look at what’s already around. You might have school supplies tucked in a drawer, a backpack from last year that still works, or clothes that can be reused. Doing a quick inventory can save time, energy, and money.

2. Think Through Your Budget, Priorities, and Timeline
   
   Thinking through your budget, and any wants or needs you're balancing before making purchases, can make the process feel less overwhelming. If you're shopping for someone else, making the list together can open up helpful conversations. It might help to think ahead about situations where you could feel pressure to say yes. There’s nothing wrong with choosing a joyful or meaningful purchase that wasn’t part of the original plan, but it’s also okay to uphold boundaries when that purchase isn’t doable.
   
   If it feels like too much to buy everything at once, you may want to spread things out. Some items might go on sale later in the season or turn out to be less necessary once school starts. Spacing things out can also help in situations where you want to say yes to something but can't right now. A purchase doesn’t always have to be a hard no. It might just be a “not yet.” 

3. Consider No-Cost Mutual Support Options
   
   Consider alternatives to buying new items, or even buying at all. Many communities are embracing gift economies to reduce waste and foster community connection. Local groups like Buy Nothing help neighbors exchange items freely, both used and new. These types of networks can be helpful year-round, including for school supplies, backpacks, clothing, and more.
   
   If something needs a little repair, Repair Cafés are free community events where volunteers help fix electronics, clothes, and more. Find one near you.
   
   Local nonprofits, churches, and other community organizations may also host back-to-school events or supply giveaways. Some school districts, colleges, libraries, and community groups also offer free or low-cost laptops, tablets, or Wi-Fi hotspots. These may be available through loaner programs, nonprofit initiatives, or local tech drives.
   
   If you’re not sure where to start, you can call 211 or visit 211ca.org to learn about free resources near you.

4. Check Your Local Library
   
   Public libraries are often an underused back-to-school resource. Some have interlibrary loan programs, digital textbooks, and even materials you can request if they’re not already in the collection. Many also offer:
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   • Free tutoring or homework help
   • Computers, printers, and internet access
   • Laptop or hotspot loaner programs
   • Workshops and study spaces
   • Research databases, language learning tools, and resume help
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   If you’re looking for a specific textbook or supply, it’s worth checking in to see what options are available.
   

5. Compare Prices Before You Shop
   
   Look online before heading to a store. Some retailers will match competitors’ prices, and Labor Day sales may offer better deals than early August shopping. If you have flexibility on when you need certain items, spreading out purchases can help. Some items may go on sale later in the season, or prices may drop once newer models come out. You may also choose unbranded or store-brand versions of supplies, which are often similar in quality and less expensive. These approaches don’t work for everyone, but they can be ways to make room in your budget for other priorities.

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While You Shop

1. Ask About Student Discounts
   
   Many retailers offer student discounts, both in-person and online. You may be able to get lower prices on software, devices, subscriptions, or other essentials with a valid student ID.

2. Hold on to Receipts
   
   If a student you’re supporting ends up changing schools or programs, doesn’t end up needing something, or something doesn’t work out, holding on to receipts and waiting to open or use items when possible, helps with returns and exchanges. Keeping receipts is also helpful at tax time, as some school-related purchases may qualify for education-related tax credits or deductions. If possible, ask for digital receipts in case paper ones get misplaced.

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After Shopping

1. Tax Deductions and Credits to Keep in Mind
   
   Some school-related expenses may qualify for tax credits or deductions. Eligibility and credit or deduction amounts may vary depending on the tax year. It’s a good idea to save receipts or keep digital copies to revisit when filing your taxes.
   
   If you're paying for college or other higher education expenses, you may qualify for education tax credits like the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) or the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC). These can help offset the cost of tuition, textbooks, and course materials, whether you’re working toward a degree or taking courses to build new skills. You can learn more by visiting the guide to writing off college expenses at our MyFreeTaxes.org website.
   
   If your back-to-school planning includes child care, it may be worth looking into the Child and Dependent Care Credit as well. This can apply to daycare, preschool, after-school programs, or other qualifying expenses. The amount you can claim varies based on your income and situation. Learn more about the Child and Dependent Care Credit.

2. Check in on What You Didn’t Use or Might Still Need
   
   Once you’ve settled into the school year, it may help to revisit what you purchased and what actually got used. You might notice things you didn’t end up needing or identify new items that would be helpful moving forward. If there’s anything still in good condition that didn’t get used, consider returning it (if possible), saving it for next year, or sharing it with someone else in your community.
   
   This can also be a good time to check in on your budget or goals and make adjustments. Your needs may shift throughout the school year, and it’s okay to revise your plan based on what’s actually working for you.

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Need Help Planning or Following Up?

If you want to organize your next steps or take stock of how things went, here are two tools that might support you:

• Create and Follow a Budget: A free tool to help you map out your spending before or after the school year starts.
• Set a SMART Goal: Use this tool to create a clear, manageable next step toward something that matters to you, whether it’s financial, school-related, or personal. If you create a free MyMoneyPath portal account, you can even save your SMART Goal and get gentle nudges throughout the year to help you stay on track.