(Seguin) — Shoppers across Texas will be taking advantage of the state’s annual sales tax holiday which is now underway. The holiday began at midnight and runs through midnight on Sunday, August 10. The Texas Comptroller’s Office says the weekend offers families an opportunity to save money as they prepare for the upcoming school year, with tax exemptions available on a wide range of qualifying items.
Most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks priced under $100 will be eligible for the exemption, whether purchased in-store or through online and catalog sellers doing business in Texas. The Comptroller’s office encourages Texans to support local businesses while stretching their dollars on essential items needed for students heading back to class.
They say parents and students can stock up on commonly needed supplies without paying state sales tax, from face masks and notebooks to backpacks and footwear.
The tax break applies whether these items are bought in person, over the phone, by mail, or online, as long as the transaction is completed within the three-day window.
Shoppers using layaway plans, rain checks, or placing custom orders should also be aware that the timing of payment determines whether the tax exemption applies.
Meanwhile timing is key, especially for online purchases. For example, items paid for on Sunday evening before the deadline still qualify, even if they are shipped or delivered after the tax-free weekend ends. However, if payment fails to go through before the deadline and is resubmitted afterward, the purchase becomes taxable.
Texas residents are reminded that only purchases made during the designated dates qualify. Items bought before or after the weekend — even if they are the same type — will not be eligible for a tax refund.
State leaders say the sales tax holiday is designed to ease the financial burden of back-to-school shopping, offering timely relief to families and reinforcing support for Texas-based retailers.