News Summary
As the back-to-school season approaches, Texans are gearing up for the annual Sales Tax Holiday. From August 8-10, families can save on clothing, school supplies, and more, all priced under $100. This beloved tradition allows residents to shop tax-free, supporting local businesses and helping families prepare for the upcoming school year. Essential items like backpacks, shoes, and school supplies qualify for this exemption, but certain items will not. Planning your shopping around these dates is key to maximizing savings.
Texas Sales Tax Holiday for Back-to-School Shopping Scheduled for August 8-10, 2025
The state of Texas will hold its annual sales tax holiday for back-to-school shopping from August 8 to August 10, 2025. This initiative allows shoppers to purchase eligible items tax-free, providing significant savings as families prepare for the upcoming school year.
During the sales tax holiday, most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks that are priced under $100 will be exempt from sales tax. This applies to Texas residents shopping in stores as well as those making purchases online or through catalog sellers operating within the state. Importantly, no exemption certificate is necessary when buying these qualifying items, making it easier for families to take advantage of the savings.
What Qualifies for Tax Exemption
Parents and students can shop for a variety of school-related items during the sales tax holiday. The list includes:
- Clothing
- Shoes
- Backpacks (up to 10)
- School supplies such as crayons, notebooks, and calculators
Notably, there is no limit on the number of eligible items shoppers can purchase tax-free throughout the holiday weekend.
Exclusions from the Sales Tax Holiday
While many items fall under the tax-exempt umbrella, certain products do not qualify. Items such as accessories (including handbags and jewelry), computers, software, and textbooks are excluded from the tax exemption. Additionally, any shipping, delivery, or handling costs must be included in the $100 purchase limit to maintain eligibility for the tax exemption.
Background on Texas Sales Tax Holiday
Since its inception in 1999, the Texas sales tax holiday has been a tradition every August, aimed at easing the financial burden placed on families during the back-to-school season. The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts publishes regular updates on state tax matters, including confirmed events like this sales tax holiday and other significant upcoming legislative changes. The August edition of the Tax Policy News will include important legislative updates from the 89th Legislative Session.
During this time, schools and districts are expected to distribute supply lists, offering guidance to parents on necessary items for the approaching academic year. The holiday not only supports individual families but also contributes to the local economy by encouraging spending at Texas businesses.
Refunds on Qualifying Purchases
Shoppers in Texas also have the option to request a refund for sales tax previously paid on qualifying items if they make such requests through the appropriate channels. This ensures that even if tax-exempt purchases were made outside the holiday period, families can potentially reclaim some costs.
Additional Fiscal Responsibilities
Besides the sales tax holiday, August 1, 2025, will see payment deadlines for various tax obligations, including the Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Fund Assessment for insurers. Other assessments, such as the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority Fee Report, are also due on this date. Furthermore, entities that have not filed their franchise tax submissions, which were due by May 15, risk losing their right to conduct business in Texas unless they comply.
With the sales tax holiday approaching, Texas families are encouraged to prepare their shopping lists and take advantage of this opportunity, ensuring a financially manageable start to the school year.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Statesman: Texas Tax-Free Weekend 2025
- Star-Telegram: Texas Tax Holiday Details
- KXAN: Texas Sales Tax Holiday on Emergency Supplies
- NBC DFW: Texas Emergency Preparation Supplies Tax Holiday
- Wikipedia: Sales Tax in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
