Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock announced that Texas families are expected to save an estimated $133.2 million during this year’s annual sales tax holiday, which runs from Aug. 8, through midnight Aug. 10.
“Back-to-school costs can add up fast,” Hancock said in an official statement. “Whether you prefer to shop in person or online, this tax-free weekend helps families stretch their hard-earned dollars, saving about $8 for every $100 spent. Texans have saved more than $2 billion since this tradition began in 1999, and we’re glad to keep it operating.”
What’s Tax-Free?
During the three-day sales tax holiday, shoppers can buy a wide variety of back-to-school essentials tax-free, as long as each qualifying item is priced under $100.
Eligible tax-free purchases include:
- Most clothing and footwear
- Backpacks (including those with wheels and messenger-style bags)
- Diapers — both disposable and cloth
- School supplies such as notebooks, binders, pens, pencils and more
Texans can purchase up to 10 backpacks tax-free in one transaction. In addition, certain hand sanitizers and wipes that carry a "Drug Facts" label are tax-exempt year-round.
How And Where To Shop
The tax exemption applies whether shopping in-store, online, by phone, or through the mail. Layaway purchases also qualify: any item placed on layaway or paid off during the holiday is tax-free, as long as it’s individually priced under $100.
Retailers are required to honor the tax exemption. If you’re mistakenly charged tax on a qualifying item, you can request a refund directly from the seller.
A Longstanding Texas Tradition
Texas’ sales tax holiday was first introduced in 1999. Since then, Texas shoppers have saved more than $2 billion collectively during the annual event. The dates and list of qualifying items are determined each year by the Texas Legislature.
To check whether a specific item qualifies, visit TexasTaxHoliday.org.
Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to prep for the school year and save big while doing it.
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