Texas tax free weekend 2025 begins on Friday, August 8 and ends on Sunday, August 10, giving shoppers a perfect opportunity to save on essential back-to-school items. This three-day sales tax holiday allows Texas families to stretch their budgets by eliminating the standard state and local sales taxes on qualifying items.
According to state officials, shoppers can expect to save over $130 million in sales tax during this year’s event. Retailers across the state—including major chains and small businesses—are gearing up for an increase in foot traffic and online sales during the holiday weekend.
Items That Qualify for Tax Exemption
During Texas tax free weekend 2025, the following items are eligible for purchase without sales tax, as long as each individual item costs less than $100:
- Most school supplies (binders, pencils, notebooks, calculators, etc.)
- Clothing and footwear (shirts, jeans, sneakers, etc.)
- Backpacks, lunch boxes, and student bags
Non-Qualifying Items Include:
- Jewelry and accessories
- Handbags, purses, and wallets
- Sports equipment
- Luggage and computer bags
To qualify, items must be for everyday use by students and families. Items used for specialized activities—like sports or professional uniforms—are not exempt from tax.
Online, Phone & Layaway Orders Are Included
Purchases made in-person, online, by phone, or through mail orders qualify as long as the transaction is processed between 12:01 AM on August 8 and 11:59 PM on August 10. Layaway plans also qualify if the final payment is made during the tax-free window.
It’s important to note that delivery and shipping charges are included in the item’s total price. If added charges push the final cost over $100, the item becomes taxable. For example, if a pair of school shoes costs $98 and shipping is $5, the item would exceed the threshold and be subject to tax.
Retailer Guidelines and Refunds
If a qualifying item is incorrectly taxed at the point of sale, customers can request a refund from the retailer. If the retailer refuses, buyers have the option to submit a tax refund request to the state. This ensures that families can still receive their savings, even if a mistake is made during checkout.
Summary Table of Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Tax-Free Dates | August 8 – August 10, 2025 |
| Eligible Price Cap | $100 per item |
| Included Items | Clothing, school supplies, backpacks |
| Excluded Items | Jewelry, handbags, sports gear |
| Valid Purchases | In-store, online, phone, mail, layaway |
Tips for Shopping Smart
- Make a list in advance. Planning ensures you don’t miss out on eligible items.
- Shop early to avoid stockouts, especially for popular school supplies and sizes.
- Compare online and in-store prices. Some retailers may offer additional weekend discounts.
- Check delivery dates for online orders to ensure they fall within the weekend window.
- Split purchases if necessary to keep individual item prices below $100.
Why It Matters
The annual tax holiday provides a financial break for families preparing for the new school year. With rising costs in school supplies, clothing, and everyday necessities, this short-term exemption can offer meaningful savings.
Retailers often offer additional sales and promotions during the weekend to boost sales, so many shoppers benefit from both discounted prices and the removal of sales tax. For some families, the tax-free weekend has become a tradition—an important part of back-to-school shopping.
As always, shoppers are encouraged to read store flyers, compare prices, and be mindful of what qualifies and what doesn’t. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll save.
Make the most of Texas tax free weekend 2025 by planning ahead, checking item eligibility, and watching for store deals. Whether you’re stocking up for your kids or updating your own wardrobe, this is the perfect time to save.
Feel free to share your favorite tax-free finds or tips in the comments—let’s help each other get the best deals possible!