The Tampon Tax Back Coalition Will Reimburse You for Taxes Paid on Select Period Care Products

Period care essentials are expensive. On top of that, many U.S. states still impose taxes on them even though they're necessary personal care items. If you get a period and live in a state that charges this tax, you can expect to pay more at checkout. But some relief is here thanks to the Tampon Tax Back Coalition. Several period care brands have come together to offer reimbursement for the taxes paid on these items. Here's what you need to know.

Introducing the Tampon Tax Back Coalition

Several period care brands have joined forces to fight to stop the tampon tax. Known as The Tampon Tax Back Coalition, these businesses don't believe period products should be taxed. After all, they're as necessary as products like toilet paper. The like-minded brands include August, Cora, DIVA, Here We Flo, The Honey Pot, LOLA, Saalt, and Rael.

Behind the scenes, these companies provide education and encourage legislation to abolish tax on necessary menstrual products. But they're also helping people with periods in the 21 states that still charge taxes on these essential products, because life is expensive enough without being forced to pay unfair taxes.

Menstruators can get reimbursed for any tampon tax paid when buying period care products from any of the above eight brands at a retail store. Yes, you read that right. You can get your tampon tax money returned after filing a claim online. Don't ignore this program.

Here's how to file a claim

Follow these steps to file a claim and get the reimbursement process started:

1. Visit Tampontaxback.com.
2. Enter your phone number to enroll and receive a text confirmation.
3. Send your receipts within 10 days of purchasing qualifying items.
4. You'll receive payment on the taxes paid (usually within 48 hours).

Payment options include Venmo or PayPal. So you can cash out the payment to your bank account. As a reminder, to qualify for payment, the products purchased must be from the brands included in the Tampon Tax Back Coalition.

Yes -- the period tax sucks. But progress is happening, even if it's slow. This program can provide financial relief to people with periods. And initiatives like this can help spark more conversation around period product taxation so that more progress is made in the future.

Three ways to save money when buying period care items

Most of us feel the strain on our wallets as everyday costs rise. If you're sick of the high price of menstrual products like pads and tampons, you're not alone. But you may be able to reduce your spending when buying these must-have items. Here are a few suggestions:

• Buy in bulk: If you can afford it and have the space, buying period care items in bulk can provide substantial savings. Consider purchasing larger boxes at retail stores or join a warehouse club like Costco to get a deal. As a bonus, you can stock up for a while.
• Don't ignore virtual coupons: Many retailers have free rewards programs that can help you save money. You may be able to clip virtual coupons in the store's mobile app for additional savings. Before buying menstrual products, check if a coupon could offer savings.
• Use HSA or FSA funds: If you have a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA), you can use these pre-tax dollars to buy qualifying period care products. While you won't get a discount, you can save money by not having to charge your credit card.

For additional ways to save money on personal care items and beyond, check out our personal finance resources.