Texas Tax-Free Weekend: Gear Up for School & Save Big!

Texas shoppers can breathe easy for three days knowing that most clothing, footwear, and school supplies priced under $100 are exempt from sales tax. This means every dollar can go a little further, allowing families to stock up on necessities without breaking the bank. The best part? The exemption applies to each eligible item sold for under $100, and there’s no limit to how many items you can buy tax-free.

The Essentials: What’s Included?

During the tax-free weekend, specific clothing items like undergarments, shoes, sweaters, baby diapers, jeans, and uniforms are exempt from sales tax. School supplies such as binders, composition books, index cards, lunch boxes, pencils, and writing tablets under $100 also qualify.

Accessories like umbrellas, hair clips, jewelry, purses, and wallets are not eligible for the tax break. Computers, software, textbooks, and framed backpacks are also excluded from the tax exemption.

Qualifying items can be snagged at Texas stores or through online sellers conducting business within the state. Even if the items are shipped post-weekend, the savings apply as long as the purchase is made during the tax-free period.

For online purchases, if you enter your credit card information to buy qualifying items during the tax-free period, but the items are shipped or delivered afterward, the purchase still qualifies for the exemption. However, the purchase becomes taxable if the payment is declined and resubmitted after the weekend.

State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa captures the spirit of the season: “The back-to-school season is a great chance for Texas families to score deals and save money, while also supporting our local businesses. I urge families to make the most of this weekend's sales tax holiday to stretch their hard-earned dollars further. You can shop either in stores or online with Texas-based sellers.”

Shopping Tips for Success

• Plan your attack: Create a list to avoid impulse buys and ensure you get all the necessary items. Knowing what you need beforehand can help streamline your shopping experience
• Compare and conquer: Look for the best prices across different stores to get the most bang for your buck. Many retailers offer additional sales during this period, so take advantage of these discounts
• Early bird advantage: Start shopping early to beat the crowds and secure popular items before they fly off the shelves. Early shopping also allows you to take your time and make thoughtful purchases
• Know your stuff: Familiarize yourself with the list of eligible and ineligible items to avoid surprises at checkout. Being informed ensures you don’t mistakenly add non-qualifying items to your cart

To maximize your shopping experience, consider combining the tax-free weekend with other sales and discounts. Many retailers offer additional promotions during this time, providing even more opportunities to save. Check out flyers, online advertisements, and in-store promotions for the best deals.

Remember, the tax-free weekend is an excellent opportunity to buy items you might need later in the year. Stocking up on essentials now can save you money in the long run.

The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday provides significant financial relief for families preparing for the new school year. By saving on essential items, families can allocate their resources more effectively, ensuring their children have everything they need for a successful start to the school year.

Moreover, the event boosts local economies. With increased foot traffic in stores and higher online sales from Texas-based retailers, businesses see a surge in revenue. This increased spending helps local economies thrive and supports community businesses.