TAX-FREE WEEKEND FOR EMERGENCY SUPPLIES BEGINS SATURDAY

  

Texans can purchase certain items tax-free this weekend during the state’s sales tax holiday for emergency preparation supplies.

The tax-free weekend begins at 12:01 a.m. tomorrow (Saturday) and ends at midnight on Monday.

Qualifying items include household batteries, fuel containers and flashlights priced less than $75; hurricane shutters and emergency ladders less than $300; and portable generators less than $3,000.

There is no limit on the number of items that can be purchased. 

Items that are not eligible for the sales tax holiday include batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles; camping stoves and camping supplies; chainsaws; plywood; extension ladders and stepladders; and tents.

Purchases that are made online count delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges as part of the sales price.

The Texas Comptroller’s Office estimates that shoppers will save nearly $2 million in state and local sales taxes during the tax holiday, which was approved by the Texas Legislature in 2015. 

A full list of emergency preparation supplies that can be purchased tax-free can be found on the Comptroller’s website.