Tax-free weekend is here for the Austin area | Here’s what you can buy now, and mistakes you should avoid

Texas’ annual tax-free weekend begins Friday, Aug. 7 and runs through midnight Sunday, Aug. 9.

AUSTIN, Texas — Back-to-school shopping is underway and so is Texas’ annual tax-free weekend which begins Friday, Aug. 7 and runs through midnight Sunday, Aug. 9.

So if you’re planning on stocking up on clothes, shoes or school supplies, this is the time to do it. This means shoppers have a chance to save 8.25% sales tax for the Austin area, which is the state’s sales tax of 6.25% + the local sales tax of 2%. 

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What qualifies during Texas’ tax-free weekend?

Only specified clothing, shoes and school-related items priced under $100 qualify for the sales tax exemption. There is no limit to the number of qualifying items you can purchase.

You can shop tax-free at qualifying retailers in person, online, by mail or over the phone as long as your purchase is completed within the three-day weekend. 

For a full list of items that qualify for exemption, click here. 

What items do not qualify for the exemption?

Not all purchases qualify for the tax-free exemption.

Some items that do not qualify include: 

Items priced at $100 or moreClothing subscription boxesSpecially designed athletic or protective clothing and footwearClothing alterations and cleaning servicesMaterials used to make or repair clothingJewelryHandbags and pursesWalletsWatchesLuggage and briefcasesComputersSoftwareTextbooksComputer bagsAthletic, duffle and gym bagsFramed backpacks