TEXAS — School will be back in session as early as Aug. 8 for some Texas students. That means it’s about that time to hit the racks for supplies. But don’t fret, we’re just a few weeks out from the Sales Tax Holiday weekend.

People can save a couple of dollars by doing a majority of their school shopping during the tax-free weekend. Items priced under $100 can be bought in-store, online or through other methods. Not all items qualify, though.

Most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks are considered tax-free items. But for more detailed lists, review which clothing/footwear and supplies qualify.

The Sales Tax Holiday weekend starts on Aug. 11 and ends Aug. 13 at midnight. Since tax-free items can be purchased through other means — such as by telephone, mail, custom order, etc. — it’s crucial to ensure the transaction is complete before the deadline.

“For example, if a purchaser enters their credit card information in an online shopping website on Sunday Aug. 13, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. to purchase qualifying school supplies, but the school supplies will not be shipped until Friday Aug. 18, 2023 and will not arrive until Tuesday Aug. 22, the purchase will still qualify for the exemption,” according to a Texas Comptroller publication. “However, if the charge to your credit card is declined by the payment processor at 11:00 p.m. on Sunday Aug. 13, 2023 and the purchaser does not resubmit payment until Monday Aug. 14, the purchase is taxable.”

Also, keep in mind that any delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges by the seller will be totaled into the item’s sale price.

To buy tax-free items, residents must do business with Texas-adjacent retailers. Most often, shoppers do not need to present an exemption certificate. However, if you using a business account, it’s required. And you’re asked to fill out a form.

For more information about the Sales Tax Holiday, click here.