A proposal for tax-free groceries in Perry County is being considered. If the proposal passes, every Wednesday and Thursday customers who shop on those days to purchase groceries will save 3% as the county’s sales tax will be waived.
Beginning October 4, 2023, customers shopping for groceries in Perry County will enjoy considerable savings due to the county’s sale and use tax reduction on food. If the measure passes when considered at the upcoming September 12 meeting of the Perry County Commission, customers will only have to pay 6% in sales tax on applicable items – a reduction from the normal 10%. This is composed of 3% to the State and 3% to either the City of Marion or Uniontown. This tax cut means customers can save 4% on their grocery expenses when compared to pre-September 1 prices.
Act 2023-554 outlines that all food items that are approved under the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are tax-exempt in the state of Alabama. This means that all types of fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, bread, cereals, snack foods, and non-alcoholic beverages will not be taxed when purchased in Alabama. Furthermore, the seeds and plants used to produce food in Perry County are also covered by the law and will not be subject to taxation.
Senior citizens aged 60 and over who shop at FoodValu on Wednesdays can enjoy a 14% discount on grocery items. This is comprised of the store’s 10% senior discount, combined with an additional 1% savings from the state and 3% from the county. So, on Wednesdays at FoodValu, seniors can save an extra 14% on their grocery items.
If the new proposal is passed, it will be the first of its kind in the whole state, marking a major milestone since the enactment of the State’s grocery tax bill. Furthermore, it will coincide with the launch of the new Dollar General store along Highway 5 in Marion, providing more convenience and options to residents in the area.
Neighboring communities are encouraged to join in experiencing the savings that come with shopping locally, and will be especially beneficial for our senior citizens, as they will see a decrease in their grocery bills.
By taking advantage of store sales, coupons, and the state and county exempt sales tax, as well as the senior discount available at FoodValu in Perry County, Alabama, grocery shoppers can save significantly on their budget. Combining all of these money-saving techniques can make an even bigger difference in savings.
