The Texas spring tax free weekend could not come at a better time. Each spring, the state holds the tax free holiday for Texans to prepare for severe weather and hurricane season. This year, with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, we are all looking for ways to save every dollar we can. This is especially true if you are someone who has sadly lost their job because of the virus.

 

The tax free weekend will begin Saturday, April 25 at 12:01am and will continue into Monday, April 27 at midnight. State officials remind everyone to continue practicing social distancing and find out if the retailers you plan on shopping offer curbside or delivery services. In some cases, you can make purchases online that will qualify for tax free here in Texas.

 

When it comes to the items that are eligible for the tax free holiday, there are no limits on the amounts you can purchase, but there are some limits on the prices for individual items. For instance, if you purchase a generator that is under $3,000, it is eligible. Items on the list include most anything that could be used in an emergency.

These emergency supplies qualify for tax exemption:

  • Less than $3,000:
    • Portable generators
  • Less than $300:
    • Emergency ladders
    • Hurricane shutters
  • Less than $75:
    • Axes
    • Batteries, single or multipack (AAA cell, AA cell, C cell, D cell, 6 volt or 9 volt)
    • Can openers - nonelectric
    • Carbon monoxide detectors
    • Coolers and ice chests for food storage – nonelectric
    • Fire extinguishers
    • First aid kits
    • Fuel containers
    • Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
    • Hatchets
    • Ice products - reusable and artificial
    • Light sources - portable self-powered (including battery operated)
      • Examples of items include: candles, flashlights and lanterns
    • Mobile telephone batteries and mobile telephone chargers
    • Radios - portable self-powered (including battery operated) - includes two-way and weather band radios
    • Smoke detectors
    • Tarps and other plastic sheeting
    • Several over-the-counter self-care items, such as antibacterial hand sanitizer, soap, spray and wipes, are always exempt from sales tax if they are labeled with a “Drug Facts” panel in accordance with federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.

These supplies do NOT qualify for tax exemption:

  • Medical masks and face masks
  • Cleaning supplies, such as disinfectants and bleach wipes
  • Gloves, including leather, fabric, latex and types used in healthcare
  • Toilet paper
  • Batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles
  • Camping stoves
  • Camping supplies
  • Chainsaws
  • Plywood
  • Extension ladders
  • Stepladders
  • Tents
  • Repair or replacement parts for emergency preparation supplies
  • Services performed on, or related to, emergency preparation supplies

 

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