Tampons and diapers will soon be cheaper in Missouri when new law takes effect
Missourians — including families, women and older adults — might save money when tax cuts for essential hygiene products kick in this month.
Diapers, period products and incontinence supplies will be exempt from sales tax under a new Missouri law that takes effect Aug. 28.
The hygiene tax changes were tacked onto a sweeping bill that cut various taxes, including sales tax for broadband companies and income taxes on capital gains.
The state estimated that its general revenue fund will lose up to $31 million a year because of the law, which is 0.2% of the general revenue for the 2025 fiscal year.
Local governments across Missouri are expected to lose up to $47 million a year, according to the fiscal note.
The American Medical Association, along with other groups, supports ending the sales tax for menstrual products, calling the taxes “regressive“ and saying they unfairly burden low income individuals.
In June, Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat, criticized Missouri Republicans for cutting taxes on the sale of investments while eliminating dollars for important services.
“We’re going to continue to give tax cuts, especially tax cuts for the most wealthy, while working Missourians are forced to struggle,” Nurrenbern said.
What items qualify for the sales tax exemption?
According to the Department of Revenue, these three types of hygiene products qualify for sales tax exemptions under the new law.
- Diapers, for both children and adults
- Period products including tampons, pads, panty liners, reusable cups, menstrual discs and period underwear
- Incontinence products including protective undergarments, pads, liners, underpads and external catheters
When will we stop paying these taxes?
Missouri retailers will stop charging state and local sales tax for these hygiene products starting on Aug 28, according to the DOR.
What if I shop online?
Missourians can still pay less if they buy qualifying hygiene products online. Because sales tax is collected in the state where an order is placed, people who buy these items through a website won’t have to pay sales tax.
Have more questions about taxes in Missouri? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
