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Texas Tax-Free Weekend Is August 7-9: What Qualifies for Back-to-School Shopping

Texas' back-to-school sales tax holiday runs August 7-9, 2026. Clothing, shoes, backpacks and school supplies under $100 are exempt from state and local sales tax.

Jubal Vargas

July 24, 20261 min read

Back-to-school shopping - illustration, Jake Team LLC
Back-to-school shopping - illustration, Jake Team LLC

With the new school year days away, The Colony shoppers can save on back-to-school basics during Texas' annual tax-free weekend.

Texas' sales tax holiday runs from Friday, August 7, through Sunday, August 9, 2026. During those three days, many back-to-school items are exempt from state and local sales tax, which together can total up to 8.25 percent.

Most clothing and footwear priced under $100 per item qualifies, as do student backpacks, up to 10 per purchase, and a specific list of school supplies under $100 each. The exemption applies whether you shop in a Texas store or online from a seller doing business in Texas.

Some items do not qualify, including jewelry, handbags, wallets, watches, computers, software, textbooks, and clothing or footwear designed mainly for athletic or protective use. Rentals and alteration or cleaning services are also excluded.

Shoppers do not need a coupon or an exemption certificate. The discount applies automatically at checkout on qualifying items, and the full list is available from the Texas Comptroller.

Quick facts

  • When: Friday, August 7 through Sunday, August 9, 2026
  • What: most clothing, footwear, backpacks and school supplies under $100 each
  • Savings: up to 8.25 percent in state and local sales tax
  • Where: Texas stores and online sellers doing business in Texas

Sources

https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-490/

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Jubal Vargas

Jubal Vargas writes about community life, schools, public safety, and local events in The Colony.

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