American households are kicking off back-to-school spending weeks earlier than usual, seeking to blunt the impact of tariffs and lingering inflation on classroom essentials. A National Retail Federation survey released this week found that two-thirds of families have already started shopping, up 55% from last year, with 51% of respondents saying concern over tariffs is driving their early purchases. The industry group expects total U.S. spending on supplies and apparel to reach $128.2 billion this season, even as average outlays per kindergarten-through-high-school student edge down to about $858. Separate research by Deloitte puts planned spending closer to $570 per child as parents focus on core items and hunt for discounts. Price anxiety remains high: the Consumer Price Index rose 2.9% in July, and a Bankrate poll shows more than 30% of shoppers worry they cannot afford what schools require. Retailers are responding with mid-summer promotions, while community organizations are filling gaps for low-income families. The Salvation Army’s “Backpack SOS” in Arizona, a FOX4 Love Fund telethon in Kansas City and the Newton County Sheriff’s annual “Fill the Bus” drive in Georgia are among the initiatives collecting donations ahead of the 2025-26 school year. Organizers say demand has intensified as households brace for the full effect of the 145% tariff on imported goods enacted in April.