How to reduce spending on school supplies?

Association brings tips and guidelines to help consumers save on the purchase of school supplies

At the beginning of the school year, there is a big impact with the bills: IPVA, IPTU, school enrollment and school supplies. In this last item, parents should be careful not to be abused and to save as much as possible. 

With advice from Proteste , follow some tips so that spending on children's material weigh less on the family budget.

See what's left over from the previous year 

Before going shopping, parents should check the products left over from the previous year and reuse them. Evaluate whether there is a need to buy material for the whole year or whether it is better to split the purchase, for example, every six months.

Research prices and negotiate discounts

Research prices at different points of sale, comparing brands and establishments. If it is impossible to buy each item in different places, the solution is to search the list as a whole. If you gather other parents and buy together, it's also another way to save.

Avoid taking your children shopping

It is advisable not to take the children shopping, to avoid being pressured to buy "fashionable" products. Evaluate the quality of items, price and payment terms.

Escape installments

Avoid installment payments, and always negotiate discounts or better conditions. Always demand the invoice, cashier ticket or coupon from the point of sale, essential if there is a need for exchange.

Attention to list requirements

Parents should also be aware of the requirements made by schools. Institutions cannot request the purchase of materials for collective use, such as bond paper in large quantities, office supplies, toilet paper, disposable cups and cutlery and cleaning products, among others.

 Federal Law No. 12,886/13, in force since 2013, prohibits the inclusion of these items and determines that the costs corresponding to this type of material must be included in the value of the school annuity.

Know the material list before signing the contract 

It is important to remember that parents have the right to know the list before signing the contract. If it is not ready, the family can request the previous year's list to have a basis and arrange a date with the school to receive the current one. This is the only way for parents to avoid unpleasant surprises.

School cannot determine the place of purchase

The school also cannot determine the brand or stationery where the material must be purchased, nor require the purchase within the institution. She can even offer this service, but she has to give the family the option to choose.

The only exception is for handouts manufactured by the school itself. If this material is mandatory, the school must inform parents at the time of registration. And if any undue charge is proven, the school may be penalized and obliged to reimburse the amount unduly paid in double.