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Tax season isn’t just about getting your return in time and all the commotion that goes with it; it’s also a great opportunity to boost sales. Tax-time promotions, offers and tie-ins can add some fun to this busy time of year and hopefully make you some money too!
Here are some ideas that you might want to use for your small business.
Use the Number “1040”
No one enjoys filling in Form 1040, but as a small business, the number has infinite promotional possibilities.
For example, if you own a restaurant or bar you could offer two dishes, meals, or drinks for $10.40. Retailers could mark down items to $10.40. Or online stores could offer a special promotion that starts at 10:40 or can only be redeemed with coupon code “1040.”
There are probably 1,040 other things small businesses could do along the same line.
Offer a Unique Product in Honor of Tax Day!
Whether it’s the “Tax Man Martini” or the “Uncle Sam Sandwich,” think of ways to offer unique, one-off items that have a tax day tie-in and charge $10.40 or $15 for it (as a nod to April 15).
Come Up With a “Taxing” Catchphrase
Last year, California Tortilla came up with the tagline “Queso Makes Life Less Taxing” and offered free chips and queso with any purchase on April 15.
Get the word out a few days ahead of time on social media and to your email subscribers. Line up some memes, images, and product photos to accompany the catchphrase and let customers know what’s being offered.
Offer a Tax-Free Service
Offer a tax-free dining or shopping experience for one-day only on April 15.
Position Your Offer as a Refund
We’re all hoping for a tax refund, so why not offer your customers one. Instead of the traditional “BOGO” offer, give them a refund when they buy two items in a certain range.
Help Your Customers Relax After Tax Season
Preparing taxes is complicated and stressful. Could your business offer something that can help customers wind down and relax after tax season? B and Bs and hotels could offer a “Tax-Free, Stress-Free Weekend Special.” Spa owners could offer a “Tax Day De-Stress Package.”
Offer an in-room credit (aka refund) or a special service for soothing “taxed” nerves.
Set Up a Pop-up Shop
Get out there among your taxpaying customers and hand out free samples of your products or services. Throw in a free shoulder massage, just for fun.
Run an Early Bird Campaign for Early Filers
Run a promo or special the morning of tax day and position it as a special promotion for those who already have their refunds.
Offer Tax Tips for Next Year
If you’re in the financial services industry, now is the time to start marketing your services. Offer customers a free consultation or product trial and tout how you can help them do a better job of filing next year.
The opportunities are endless. For more inspiration, check out this roundup of Tax Day Freebies, Promotions, Deals and Specials from Forbes, which features a selection of the best promos offered by businesses last year.
Tax Calendar Photo via Shutterstock