Texas Sales Tax Holiday to be held this weekend

Texas families are expected to save an estimated $133.2 million in state and local sales taxes during this weekend’s sales tax holiday, which runs Friday, Aug. 8, through midnight Sunday, Aug. 10.

That's according to a release sent out recently by acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock. 

“Back-to-school costs can add up fast,” said Hancock. “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.”

During the three-day event, Texans can purchase a wide range of items tax-free, including most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced under $100.

Diapers (both cloth and disposable) are also exempt from sales tax, and certain sanitizers and wipes with a drug facts label are tax-free year-round.

The exemption applies whether shoppers buy items in stores, online, by telephone or by mail.

Shoppers using layaway also can benefit. Items placed on layaway or final payments made on existing layaway purchases during the holiday are tax-free, provided the individual item price remains below $100.

If a retailer mistakenly charges sales tax on a qualifying item, customers may request a refund directly from the seller. For more information about sales tax refunds, go to the Comptroller’s website.

The Texas Legislature determines both the dates of the sales tax holiday and the list of qualifying items each year.

For more information or for a full list of taxfree items, visit www. TexasTaxHoliday.org.