Do Parents Pay for Their Children's School Uniforms?

Payment Responsibility

• American families spend billions of dollars on school uniforms each year, according to "TIME" magazine. In almost all instances, responsibility for paying for these school uniforms falls on the parents of the child. Certain schools might help parents by pointing them to clothing stores that sell the uniforms at the cheapest price, but ultimately, parents must purchase the uniforms their child is required to wear. According to the Great Schools website, one goal with uniforms is to help children resist the urge to purchase trendy clothes, which many schools argue actually save parents money in the long run.

Considerations

• If you've enrolled your child in a school that requires uniforms, the school administration will give you a list of acceptable styles and colors that meet the dress code guidelines. For example, many schools require khaki pants and solid-colored collar shirts that are navy blue or white, according to USA Today. The up-front cost of these uniforms can be quite staggering, but doing price comparisons in stores and online can help you find the cheapest versions. Since parents are responsible for providing the uniforms, it's also important to take maintenance costs into account. If your child rips her pants or if her shirt gets too small during the school year, you'll be required to provide new uniforms that fit well and that are in good repair.

Getting Help

• Ask your child's school about potential scholarships or financial aid that can be used to help pay for uniforms. Many school districts and some private schools offer financial assistance for families that qualify. These programs are similar to the free and reduced lunch programs that all public and some private schools offer. The programs require parents to provide certain financial documents proving that they make less than a certain amount of money each year. If a family qualifies, they might be able to buy uniforms at a reduced cost or receive the uniforms free. Ask your child's school or school district about their financial aid policies and to learn how to take advantage of any programs they offer.

Additional Considerations

• There are additional ways to spend less money on uniforms. If you have more than one child, save the uniforms as your older children outgrow them so your younger children can use them in the coming years. You might also swap with other parents at the school. Look at thrift and consignment stores, too. You might be able to find clothes that fit the bill for a fraction of the cost of new uniforms. Watch for clearance sales after the school year starts. Many stores mark down school uniforms to 20 to 75 percent off retail price after school starts for the year, which can save you a lot of money in the long run.