Back-to-school is right around the corner which means the arrival of Texas’ annual Sales Tax Holiday, which has been an annual event since 1999. This year’s sales tax holiday begins Friday, Aug. 6, and goes through midnight Sunday, Aug. 8. Shoppers will pay no state or local sales tax on many school supplies, most clothing and shoes priced under $100. Lay-away plans can also be used to take advantage of the sales tax holiday.
As in previous years, the law exempts most clothing and footwear priced under $100 from sales and use taxes. Backpacks under $100 used by elementary and secondary students are also exempt. The backpack exemption includes backpacks with wheels, provided they can also be worn on the back like a traditional backpack, and messenger bags. The exemption does not include items that are reasonably defined as luggage, briefcases, athletic/duffle/gym bags, computer bags, purses or framed backpacks.
In addition to clothes, footwear and backpacks, Texas families also get a sales tax break on most school supplies priced at less than $100 purchased for use by a student in an elementary or secondary school.
In most cases, an exemption certificate is not required to buy qualifying tax-free items. The exception is when you are buying supplies under a business account, then you must present an exemption certificate. “Under a business account” means the purchaser is using a business credit card or business check rather than a personal credit card or personal check.
To assist families who are planning to take advantage of the savings, the Comptroller’s website provides a list of tax-free items. This list can be found online at Sales Tax Holiday.
If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. My offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns, or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603).
– State Representative Todd Hunter, District 32
Rep. Hunter represents Nueces County (Part). He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.
