Your Guide to Tax-Free Shopping Dates by State

David K
Jul 28, 2024By David K

Shopping can be a joy, especially when you can save money. One way to do this is by taking advantage of tax-free shopping dates. These dates vary by state, and knowing them can help you plan your purchases better.

What Is Tax-Free Shopping?

Tax-free shopping days are special periods when certain items are exempt from sales tax. These days are often set by state governments to help families save on back-to-school items, clothing, and more. It's a great way to stretch your budget.

tax-free shopping

How to Find Your State’s Tax-Free Dates

Each state has its the year. To find out your state's dates, you can visit your state's official website or check local news sources.

States with Tax-Free Days

Here are some examples of states that offer tax-free shopping days:

Alabama
Arkansas
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Mississippi
Missouri
New Mexico
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia


Each state's tax-free weekend can differ in terms of dates and eligible items. To get the most accurate and current information, it's best to check your state's official Department of Revenue website or similar government resource.

What are the dates?

1. Alabama

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on school supplies, clothing, computers, and certain other items.


2. Arkansas

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing and school supplies.


3. Connecticut

Dates: August 18-19, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing and footwear under $100.


4. Florida

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing, school supplies, and certain other items.


5. Georgia

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing, school supplies, and computers.


6. Mississippi

Dates: July 26-27, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing and school supplies.


7. Missouri

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on school supplies, clothing, and certain other items.


8. New Mexico

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing, school supplies, and computers.


9. North Carolina

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing, school supplies, and computers.


10. South Carolina

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing, school supplies, and computers.


11. Tennessee

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing, school supplies, and computers.


12. Texas

Dates: August 9-11, 2024

Details: Tax-free on clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks.


13. Virginia

Dates: August 2-4, 2024

Details: Tax-free on school supplies, clothing, and certain other items.


Tax-free weekend dates for back-to-school shopping vary each year and by state. Here are typical dates for some states, but it's important to verify the specific dates for the current year:


What Items Are Typically Tax-Free?

The items that are tax-free can vary by state. However, some common items include:

  1. Clothing
  2. School supplies
  3. Computers and accessories

Some states even include energy-efficient appliances and emergency preparedness items. Always check the list of eligible items before you shop.

Tips for Maximizing Your Savings

To make the most of tax-free shopping days, plan ahead. Make a list of the items you need and check which stores offer the best deals. Combining store sales with tax-free days can lead to significant savings.

Shop Early

Tax-free shopping days can be busy. To avoid crowds and ensure you get the items you need, shop early. Many stores may also offer extended hours during these periods.

Know the Limits

Some states have price limits on tax-free items. For instance, clothing items may only be tax-free if they are under a certain price. Knowing these limits can help you avoid surprises at the checkout.

By understanding tax-free shopping dates and planning your purchases, you can save money and make your shopping experience more enjoyable. Keep an eye on your state's schedule and take advantage of these opportunities to stretch your budget further.