Texas tax-free weekend kicks off
Published 5:40 am Friday, August 7, 2026
Texas families can shop without paying sales taxes during this year’s sales tax holiday, which takes place Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The holiday gives families a chance to save money on school supplies, clothing and more.
People can purchase most types of clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced less than $100, according to the Texas Comptroller’s Office. Certain sanitizers and sanitary wipes are tax-free year-round.
A full list of tax-free items is available at texastaxholiday.org.
Sales tax exemptions apply whether shoppers buy items in stores, online, by telephone or by mail, according to the comptroller’s office.
If a retailer mistakenly charges sales tax on a qualifying item, customers may request a refund directly from the seller. For more information about sales tax refunds, go to the comptroller’s website.
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Texas Comptroller Don Huffines said Texas families are expected to save an estimated $142.5 million in state and local sales taxes during this year’s sales tax holiday.
“Since 1999, Texans have saved more than $2 billion on everything from coats to crayons and scissors to sneakers in preparation for the back-to-school bell,” Huffines said. “But this holiday initiative isn’t just about short-term relief — it’s a cornerstone of financial support for Texas families, reducing the cost burden of essential educational supplies and clothing.”