Texans preparing for hurricane season and other natural disasters will have a chance to save money this weekend during the state’s annual Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday.
According to the Texas Comptroller’s office, the 2026 holiday runs from 12:01 a.m. Saturday, April 25, through midnight Monday, April 27. During that time, shoppers can purchase certain emergency supplies tax-free, both in stores and through online or phone orders, as long as the purchase is completed within the designated period.
The tax exemption applies to a wide range of items intended to help residents prepare for disasters such as hurricanes, flash floods and wildfires. There is no limit on the number of qualifying items that can be purchased, and shoppers are not required to present an exemption certificate.
Items that qualify include portable generators priced under $3,000, emergency ladders and hurricane shutters under $300, and smaller essentials under $75 such as batteries, flashlights, radios, first aid kits, fire extinguishers and non-electric can openers.
Officials note that several everyday preparedness items, including tarps, fuel containers, smoke detectors and mobile phone chargers, are also included, as long as they fall within the price limits.
However, not all items are eligible. Supplies such as camping equipment, chainsaws, tents, extension ladders and vehicle batteries do not qualify for the tax exemption. Common household items like toilet paper, gloves and cleaning supplies are also excluded.
Shoppers should also be aware that delivery and shipping charges count toward an item’s total price. If those added costs push the purchase above the qualifying price limit, the item becomes taxable.
The Comptroller’s office says the timing of payment is key for online purchases. Orders must be completed and paid for during the holiday window to qualify, even if delivery occurs after the event ends.
Consumers who are mistakenly charged sales tax on qualifying items during the holiday can request a refund from the seller or file a claim through the state.
The annual tax holiday is designed to encourage Texans to prepare ahead of emergencies while easing some of the financial burden of purchasing critical supplies.