By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
The sales tax holiday returns this weekend, and shoppers can save on school supplies.
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said Texans can save on backpacks and pants, among other items, starting Friday, Aug. 10, through Sunday, Aug. 12.
The annual event exempts most clothing, footwear and school supplies that cost less than $100 from sales and use taxes. Officials say shoppers can save roughly $8 for every $100 they spend over the three days.
“As Texas families begin the process of replacing their beach bags with book bags, Texas’ sales tax holiday is the perfect opportunity to save some money on the supplies families need before the school bell rings,” Hegar said. “As a dad to three young children, I know how these expenses can add up.”
The holiday does not just apply to in-person purchases, Chris Bryan, director of communications for the Texas Comptroller’s office, said in an interview with the Texas Farm Bureau Radio Network.
“If you can’t get out to the stores this weekend, or if you just don’t want to, catalog, online and internet orders are all a part of sales tax holiday weekend,” he said.
Bryan noted parents look forward to saving as much as they can on supplies for the kids, but they can also take part in the savings. Adult clothing, including footwear, priced under $100 will also be tax free.
“It’s not just children’s clothing. It’s not just school supplies,” he said. “Adults can take advantage of this weekend, too.”
The Comptroller’s office is forecasting shoppers will save $90.3 million in state and local taxes this weekend. That number is higher than last year’s forecast of $87 million.
A list of clothing and supplies that qualify as tax-free purchases can be found on the Comptroller’s website.