Tax-Free Weekend 2019 -- What Your State is Doing for the Holiday

Writer:

Jim Hughes

Editor:

Ana-Maria Sanders

Reviewer:

Sophia Rodriguez

Save this summer by not paying taxes on must-have school supplies and shop the tax-free weekend in your state. We have all the details you need to know for when and what to shop.

In total, there are 18 states nationwide that participate in a tax holiday every summer. They provide tremendous benefits for consumers that are searching for relief in school expenses, clothing, and other situations that sometimes call for emergency online payday loans. It’s often considered to be the best time of year to find school clothes sales. (It's not known for finding the best deals on something random such as JCPenney lamps; although, people probably could.) Many shoppers that are always on the hunt for huge bargain deals often compare sales tax holidays to the nationwide Black Friday sales event. For the participating states, it's that large of a deal.

Tax holidays began in the 90s and early 2000s and have earned the participating states great profits and various other economic benefits. Essentially, a tax holiday offers consumers a sales tax elimination on certain products at certain businesses. For example, the Walmart tax-exempt benefit attracts many consumers every year. People reap the benefits of discounted school supplies, back to school offers, shoes, clothing, and more. These tax-free weekend and tax-free week events bring in more revenue than the holiday season. Some consumers are faithfully committed to out-of-state shopping during these tax-exempt occasions so as to enjoy all the benefits to the fullest. For instance, Alabama residents are allowed the same tax exemption in Tennessee or any other participating state.

States that Participate in Tax-Free Periods

The 18 participating states include Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. The tax-free sales do not always occur on the same date, but they do generally occur around July or August of every year. Many people think of it as “school shopping” and “back to school shopping.” However, consumers and shoppers need to be educated on what each state allows on the sales tax exemption lists. Believe it or not, each state differs on what is considered non-taxable. Many shoppers that live in close proximity to several participating states should especially research the tax exemption lists. For instance, if an Alabama resident enjoys shopping in the neighboring states of Tennessee, Mississippi, or Florida, then it's wise to know the rules.

No Sales Tax States

Keep in mind that there are some states that never enforce a sales tax on its citizens. Clearly, these areas won’t offer consumers a tax-free weekend since the benefits are enjoyed on a regular basis. However, it's good to know the five states that don't charge sales taxes.

Listed below are the states that don’t collect and remit a sales tax:

• Oregon
• Montana
• New Hampshire
• Alaska
• Delaware

These five states don’t collect and remit any sales taxes. However, there are some exceptions in certain local areas. For example, there are a few local areas in Alaska that are allowed to charge a sales tax. Sometimes, the allowance of sales tax can be reduced to a small cluster of businesses in a certain area. It really depends on the governing laws of that specific state or region.

Alabama Tax-Free Weekend

Starting on Friday, July 19, 2019, and lasting until Sunday, July 21, 2019, Alabama will have its annual sales tax free holiday. This gives consumers the chance to purchase much-needed items for school and for the office. However, although the holiday is free of the state sales tax, many areas may still apply a local sales tax.

In summary, Alabama allows consumers to purchase articles of clothing that are $100.00 or less, computers or computer equipment that is individually priced at $750.00 or less, school supplies that are $50.00 or less per item, and books that are $30.00 or less per item.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Shoes
• Sneakers
• Boots
• Sandals
• Socks and stockings
• Hosiery and pantyhose
• Shorts
• Pants
• Blue jeans
• Shirts
• Dresses and skirts
• School uniforms
• Coats
• Raincoats
• Jackets
• Underwear
• Belts
• Hats and caps
• Neckties and regular ties
• Gloves and mittens
• Infant and adult diapers
• Pajamas and nightgowns
• Scarves and wraps

As for the computer-related supplies, remember that not everything will be exempt. Individual computer hardware pieces are not exempt. You must purchase the computer system as a bundle in order to receive the sales tax exemption.

Listed below are computer items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Laptop computer as a package (must have a CPU)
• Desktop computer as a package (must have a CPU)
• Software Programs
• Printer
• Printer Paper
• Printer Ink
• Compact Disks
• Flash Drives
• Handheld Scheduling Gadgets

Listed below are school supplies that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Notebook binders
• Notebooks
• Paper (all kinds)
• Legal pads
• Composition notebooks
• Writing tablets
• Folders
• Pencils
• Pens
• Markers
• Crayons and colored pencils
• Blackboard chalk
• Scissors
• Glue and paste
• Backpacks and book bags
• Lunch boxes
• Pencil boxes
• Clear tape
• Erasers
• Highlighters
• Rulers
• Protractors
• Pencil Sharpeners
• Reference maps and globes
• Paints
• Paintbrushes
• Sketch pads and drawing pads

Listed below are book types that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Required textbooks. (Must be more than $30.00 but less than $50.00.)
• Books that are $30.00 and less individually.
• Books must have an ISBN.

Items such as jewelry, sports gear, sporting equipment, and other accessories are not included in Alabama’s tax exemption. 

Arkansas Tax-Free Weekend

The sales tax holiday for Arkansas begins on Saturday, August 3, 2019, and ends at midnight on Sunday, August 4, 2019. Consumers will be allowed to purchase various clothing items, clothing accessories, school supplies, art supplies, and educational instruction books

an all-inclusive list.

• Shoes and sneakers
• Boots
• Insoles for shoes
• Steel-toe shoes
• Sandals
• Slippers
• Socks and stockings
• Hosiery and support hose
• Overshoes
• Footlets
• Rainwear
• Lab coats
• Jackets
• Coats
• Baby receiving blankets
• Aprons
• Belts
• Suspenders
• Infant and adult diapers
• Formal wear
• Garters and corsets
• Hats and caps
• Rubber pants
• Scarves and wraps
• Gloves and mittens
• School uniforms
• Underwear and bras
• Athletic outfits and gym apparel
• Neckties and regular ties
• Shoelaces

Listed below are the clothing accessories that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Watches
• Cosmetics
• Handbags
• Purses
• Hair ties
• Hair bows
• Wigs
• Barrettes, hair ties, and ponytail holders
• Briefcases
• Wallets
• Sunglasses
• Hairnets
• Umbrellas
• Jewelry

Listed below are school supplies that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Paper of all kinds
• Poster boards
• Composition books
• Notebooks
• Binders
• Folders
• Legal pads
• Writing tablets
• Glue and paste
• Paste sticks
• Scissors
• Erasers
• Pencils
• Pens
• Pencil sharpeners
• Index cards
• Index card boxes
• Highlighters
• Markers
• Crayons
• Blackboard chalk
• Calculators
• Backpacks and book bags
• Lunchboxes
• Rulers
• Protractors
•  Clear tape
• Compasses
• Pencil boxes
• Construction paper

Listed below are the school art supplies that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Paints (oil, acrylic, and tempera)
• Watercolors
• Paintbrushes designed for artwork
• Sketch pads
• Drawing pads
• Clays

Listed below are educational instruction books and publications that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Textbooks
• Workbooks
• Dictionaries
• Thesaurus books
• Reference maps
• Globes

Overall, Arkansas has a generous tax exemption list. For more information on the state’s sales tax holiday, visit the website at dfa.arkansas.gov

Connecticut Tax-Free Weekend

The Connecticut tax-free weekend is actually a tax-free week. Since its beginning in 2001, the sales tax holiday always starts on the third Sunday in August and lasts for a week. This year, the sales tax holiday will begin on August 18, 2019, and end on August 24, 2019.

However, there are a few differences in the Connecticut sales tax holiday from other states. Connecticut doesn’t offer a tax exemption on school supplies. The state only provides the tax exemption on clothing and footwear items. The good news? Items that are placed on layaway will not have any sales tax added during the duration of payment plans.

The clothing items are only exempted from the sales tax if the individual item is $100.00 or less.

Listed below are the clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Employee uniforms
• Work clothes
• Rented uniforms
• Aprons
• Gloves
• Robes and housecoats
• Dresses
• Golf dresses
• Golf skirts
• Jackets
• Gym outfits
• Shirts
• Tights
• Leg warmers
• Arm warmers
• Shoelaces
• Shoes
• Sneakers (without cleats)
• Tennis clothing
• Bathing suits
• Boots
• Rain boots
• Fashion boots
• Earmuffs
• Scout uniforms
• Religious uniforms and clerical vestments
• Scarves and wraps
• Hats and caps
• Bandannas
• Formal wear
• Wedding dresses, veil, and headpieces
• Foul weather gear
• Graduation caps and gowns
• Blue jeans
• Ski sweaters
• Ski jackets
• Infant and adult diapers
• Children's bibs
• Over clothes
• Slippers
• Pajamas and nightgowns
• Sweatsuits
• Chef uniforms
• Ties and neckties
• Lingerie
• Hosiery and support hose
• Blouses
• Ponchos and raincoats
• Square dancing clothes
• Undergarments
• Garters
• Athletic socks
• Painter's garments

Connecticut does allow tax exemptions for support hose and wigs that are necessary due to sickness and disease. Keep in mind that the sales tax exemption lasts for a full week. For more information, check out the state’s website at portal.ct.gov

Florida Tax-Free Weekend

The Back-to-School tax-free holiday for Florida begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Tuesday, August 6, 2019. During this time, consumers can enjoy the sales tax exemptions on clothing and accessory items, school supply items, computers, and computer accessory items.

Florida allows for the tax exemptions on clothing items that are individually priced at $60.00 or less. Individual school supply items must be $15.00 or less, and individual computer items must be at $1,000 or less.

However, it should be duly noted that the state does not allow the tax exemption to apply to items bought in any theme or amusement park setting, airport, or lodging premises. These establishments will resume normal sales tax practices.

It’s also good to know that any taxable item is recognized as exempt should it apply to any religious or medical needs.

Listed below are clothing and accessory items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Hair accessories: barrettes, hair tie, and ponytail holders
• Pants, trousers and blue jeans
• Baby clothes
• Bras
• Choir clothing
• Gloves for work
• Blouses
• Boots (except for fishing and skiing)
• Cleats
• Backpacks, book bags, and fanny packs
• Coats and jackets
• Hats and caps
• Sweaters and sweatsuits
• Ties
• Underclothes and underwear
• Uniforms
• Shoes
• Shirts
• Religious clothing and clerical vestments
• Purses
• Safety clothing
• Shorts
• Infant and adult diapers and diaper bags
• Coveralls
• Hosiery and support hose
• Leggings and tights
• Shawls, wraps, and scarves
• Shoe insoles
• Skirts and dresses
• Pajamas and nightgowns
• Suits
• Suspenders
• Sweatbands
• Gym outfits
• Braces and supports
• Bicycle helmets
• Bathing suits
• Formal wear

Listed below are school supply items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Folders and dividers
• Binders
• Composition books
• Notebooks
• Notebook paper
• Legal pads
• Posterboard
• Construction paper
• Calculators
• Protractors
• Rulers
• Scissors
• Staplers
• Staples
• Crayons
• Pens
• Pencils
• Markers
• Highlighters
• Colored pencils
• Transparent tape
• Blank CDs
• Erasers
• Glue, glue sticks, and paste
• Lunchboxes
• Compasses

Certain items are still taxable according to the state of Florida. These items are NOT exempt from the sales tax.

• Correction tape or liquid
• Printer paper
• Books
• Masking tape
• Computer paper

Listed below are computers and computer accessories that are exempt from the sales tax:

• CPUs
• Blank CDs
• Desktop computers
• Laptop computers
• Tablets
• Computer batteries
• Flash drives, thumb drives, and ZIP drives
• Memory cards
• Diskettes
• Keyboards
• Mice
• Computer microphones
• Printers
• Software (no recreational games)
• Speakers
• Web cameras
• Printer cartridges
• E-readers
• Hard drives
• Headphones
• Modems
• Monitors
• Motherboards
• Routers
• Scanners
• RAM

Computerized items that are NOT exempt include:

• Recreational games and gaming systems
• Cellular phones
• Cameras
• Music players
• Televisions
• Copy and fax machines
• Furniture
• Electronic cases and bags
• Surge protectors

For more information on Florida's sales tax holiday, visit the website at floridarevenue.com

Iowa Tax-Free Weekend

The Iowa sales tax holiday is always held on the first Friday and Saturday of every August. This year begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Saturday, August 3, 2019.

Iowa only allows the tax exemption on specific clothing items, and that’s it. Any business that is opened on the days of the sales tax holiday must participate. The exemption covers every clothing item that is $100 or less.

Listed below are the clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Adult and baby diapers
• Baby clothing and bibs
• Blouses
• Shirts
• Pants
• Skirts and dresses
• Suits
• Sweatsuits and jogging suits
• Swimwear and bathing suits
• Shoes and sneakers
• Galoshes
• Cowboy boots
• Windbreakers
• Coats and jackets
• Shawls and scarves
• Wedding apparel
• Vests
• Suspenders
• Work uniforms
• Religious clothing and clerical vestments
• Socks, stockings, and undergarments
• Slips
• Slippers
• Support hose and hosiery
• School uniforms
• Pajamas and nightgowns
• Sandals
• Tuxedos and suits
• Trousers
• Prom dresses
• Lab coats
• Graduation caps and gowns
• Fur coats
• Earmuffs and gloves
• Belts
• Children's costumes
• Bras and underwear
• Bandannas
• Aprons

Items such as jewelry, watches and other fashion accessories are not included in Iowa’s tax-free holiday. For more information, check out the website at tax.iowa.gov

Maryland Tax-Free Weekend

The sales tax holiday for Maryland extends beyond a weekend. This is one of the few states that offers an entire week of tax exemptions on clothing items and backpacks. However, Maryland’s tax exemptions are only for specific clothing items and backpacks. The exempt clothing items must be $100 or less, and the exempt backpacks must be $40 or less.

Another great perk to Maryland’s sales tax holiday is the exemption on layaway. If a consumer places clothing items or backpacks on layaway during the tax holiday, then the taxes on that bundle will remain exempt.

The sales tax holiday begins on Sunday, August 11, 2019, and ends on Saturday, August 17, 2019.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Adult and baby diapers
• Blouses
• Shirts
• Shoes and sneakers
• Shorts
• Trousers and pants
• Prom dresses
• Work uniforms
• Scout uniforms
• Lab coats
• Graduation caps and gowns
• Lingerie
• Pajamas
• Skirts
• Sandals
• Shawls and wraps
• Overshoes
• Bathing suits
• Slippers
• Tennis shoes and socks
• Surgical uniforms
• Jackets and coats
• Jeans
• Jerseys and hoodies
• Knitted caps and hats
• Sweaters
• Underclothes
• Vests
• Suits
• School uniforms
• Hosiery and support hose
• Laundry services (not commercial)
• Braces and supports
• Bowling outfits
• Golf outfits
• Wedding dresses
• Tuxedos
• Galoshes
• Leotards and tights
• Sports uniforms
• Earmuffs
• Fishing vests
• Gloves and mittens
• Belts and suspenders
• Backpacks and book bags

For more information on Maryland's week of no sales tax, check out the website at marylandtaxes.gov.

Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend

The sales tax holiday for Massachusetts is set for Saturday, August 17, 2019, to Sunday, August 18, 2019. Massachusetts,however, has decided to operate differently from the other states. Nearly everything is exempt from the sales tax in the state during the tax holiday. The only requirement is that any singular item must be $2,500 or less in order to qualify for the tax exemption. Since most things are included in the tax exemption, here’s a list of items that are NOT exempt.

Listed below are the items that are NOT exempt from the sales tax:

• Vehicles and automobiles
• Motorboats
• ATVs
• Snowmobiles
• Natural gas and electricity
• Tobacco products
• Restaurant meals

For more information on Massachusett's sales tax holiday, visit the website boston.cbslocal.com.The state website has not been updated on the sales tax holiday; however, there are plenty of newsworthy sites that are sharing the news.

Mississippi Tax-Free Weekend

The Mississippi sales tax holiday begins on Friday, July 26, 2019, and ends on Saturday, July 27, 2019. On these two days, consumers may purchase clothing items and school supplies that are individually priced at $100 or less and receive the tax exemption.

Unfortunately, the tax exemption does not apply to layaway purchases and certain items like sunglasses, jewelry, umbrellas, and more.

Listed below are the clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Shoes
• Socks and stockings
• Pants and shorts
• Shirts
• Dresses and skirts
• Baby clothes
• Baseball caps and jerseys
• Belts
• Blouses
• Fishing and golf hats
• Coveralls
• Coats and jackets
• Employee uniforms
• Chef uniforms
• Scout uniforms
• Safety shoes
• Scarves and shawls
• Flip flops and jellies
• Sneakers and tennis shoes
• Sandals and slippers
• Pajamas and slips
• Suits and slacks
• Suspenders
• Support hosiery and pantyhose
• Sweaters and sweatshirts
• Bathing suits
• Ties and neckties
• Tights and leotards
• Underclothes
• Fishing and hunting vests
• Robes
• Religious clothing and clerical vestments
• Pantyhose
• Blue jeans and painter's pants
• Gym suits
• Hiking and cowboy boots
• Bowling and golfing shirts

Listed below are the school supply items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Textbooks
• Dictionaries and thesauruses
• Reference books
• Legal pads
• Writing tablets
• Binders and binder pockets
• Composition books
• Folders
• Notebook paper
• Paper of all kinds
• Index cards
• Index card boxes
• Lunchboxes
• Pencil boxes
• Sketch and drawing pads
• Pens and pencils
• Watercolors
• Workbooks
• Sheet music
• Markers
• Pencil sharpeners
• Highlighters
• Erasers
• Crayons and colored pencils
• Blackboard chalk
• Dividers
• Glue, glue sticks, and paste
• Scissor
• Rulers and protractors
• Clays and glazes
• Calculators
• Clear tape
• Paintbrushes for art
• Paints: oil, tempera, and acrylic
• Maps and globes
• Backpacks and book bags

For additional information on Mississippi's sales tax holiday, check out the website at dor.ms.gov

Missouri Tax-Free Weekend

Missouri’s tax-free holiday begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Sunday, August 4, 2019. The state exempts the sales tax on items such as clothing, school supplies, computer software, computers, computer devices, and graphing calculators. Clothing items must be valued at $100 or less. School supplies must be valued at $50 or less. Computer software programs must be valued at $350 or less. Computers and computer devices must be valued at $1,500 or less. Graphing calculators must be valued at $150 or less. Otherwise, any singular item that is priced higher than the given limits does not qualify for the sales tax exemption.

Listed below are the clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Clothing that's intended to be worn on a person
• Disposable diapers for infants and adults
• Footwear
• Material that is used to make school clothing

Listed below are clothing accessories that are NOT eligible for tax exemption:

• Belt buckles
• Jewelry
• Umbrellas
• Watches
• Scarves
• Ties and neckties
• Headbands
• Handbags and purses
• Handkerchiefs

Listed below are the school supplies that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Textbooks
• Notebooks
• Paper of all kinds
• Pens and pencils
• Crayons and markers
• Blackboard chalk and colored pencils
• Art supplies (sketch pads, paints, and clays)
• Rulers, calculators, and protractors
• Glue, glue sticks, and paste
• Globes and maps
• Backpacks and book bags
• Computer software intended for educational purposes ($350 or less)
• Graphing calculators ($150 or less)

Listed below are computers and computer devices that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Desktop computer
• Laptop computer
• Disk drive
• Modem
• Mouse and keyboard
• Printer
• Scanner
• Speakers
• Memory devices
• Sound card
• Video card
• Digitizer and microphone

For more information on Missouri’s sales tax holiday, visit the website at dor.mo.gov

New Mexico Tax-Free Weekend

The sales tax holiday for New Mexico is always held on the first Friday in August. This year, it begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Sunday, August 4, 2019. The state provides tax exemptions on clothing items, computers, and computer equipment and school supplies. For the items to qualify for the exemption, they must not exceed the individual price limit. Clothing items must be $100 or less. Computers must be $1,000 or less. Computer equipment must be $500 or less. School supplies must be $30 or less.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Gym clothing
• Baby clothes and diapers
• Wedding dresses and apparel
• Bras and corsets
• Hats and caps
• Chef uniforms
• Religious uniforms and clerical vestments
• Choir uniforms
• Camp clothing
• Galoshes
• Formal clothing
• Gloves and mittens
• Graduation caps and gowns
• Fur clothing and coats
• Scout and school uniforms
• Military and work uniforms
• Vests
• Walking shoes and tennis shoes
• Windbreakers
• Ties and scarves
• Pajamas
• Pants, blue jeans, and trousers
• Ponchos
• Raincoats
• Leotards and tights
• Overshoes
• Lingerie and nightgowns

Listed below are computers and computer devices that are exempt from sales tax:

• Blank CDs
• CPUs
• Desktop computers
• Laptop computers
• Tablets
• Computer cables
• Computer hard drive
• Printer paper

Listed below are school supplies that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Binders
• Bluebooks
• Backpacks, book bags, and duffel bags
• Erasers
• Flashcards, index cards, and index card boxes
• Markers, colored pencils, and crayons
• Masking tape
• Highlighters
• Glue, glue sticks, and paste
• Folders and file jackets
• Book covers and bookmarkers
• Books (under $30)
• Assignment books
• Memo pads
• Rulers and protractors
• Scissors
• USB flash drives
• Watercolor paint set
• Sheet protectors
• Staplers and staples
• Clear tape and tape dispenser
• Pens and pencils

For more information on New Mexico’s sales tax holiday, check out the website at tax.newmexico.gov

Ohio Tax-Free Weekend

The Ohio sales tax holiday begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Sunday, August 4, 2019. Clothing, school supplies, and school instructional materials are exempt from the sales tax. In order for these items to qualify for the exemption, they must meet the price requirements. Clothing items must be $75 or less. School supplies must be $20 or less. School instructional materials must be $20 or less.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Shirts and blouses
• Sweaters, jackets, and coats
• Pants, blue jeans, and shorts
• Skirts and dresses
• Uniforms of all kinds
• Underwear and socks
• Shoes and boots
• Shoelaces and shoe insoles
• Sandals and slippers
• Overshoes
• Rainwear
• Hats and caps
• Pantyhose and hosiery
• Gloves and mittens
• Ties, neckties, and scarves
• Belts
• Earmuffs
• Lab coats
• Bathing suits
• Suspenders
• Aprons
• Baby receiving blankets
• Infant and adult diapers
• Garters and girdles
• Formal wear
• Wedding dresses

Listed below are school supplies that are exempt from the sales tax. This is a strict list. Anything that is not listed below is absolutely taxable.

• Binders
• Composition books
• Folders
• Notebooks
• Legal pads
• Paper of all kinds
• Poster boards
• Writing tablets
• Construction paper
• Calculators
• Compasses
• Erasers
• Pens and pencils
• Crayons and markers
• Rulers and protractors
• Pencil sharpeners
• School supply boxes
• Lunchboxes
• Glue, glue sticks, and paste
• Backpacks and book bags
• Clear tape
• Blackboard chalk
• Index cards and index card boxes
• Scissors

Listed below are the school instructional materials that are exempt from the sales tax. This is a strict list. Anything not listed here is absolutely taxable.

• Reference books
• Reference maps
• Globes
• Textbooks
• Workbooks

For more information on Ohio’s sales tax holiday, be sure to check out the website at tax.ohio.gov

Oklahoma Tax-Free Weekend

The Oklahoma sales tax holiday begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Sunday, August 4, 2019. The state exempts all sales tax on specific clothing items. In fact, the state allows the exemption on “buy one, get one” sale bundles as long as the most expensive pair item is $100 or less. This is a generous opportunity the most states don’t allow on sales tax holidays.

Oklahoma requires that all clothing items priced at $100 or less be applied toward the tax exemption.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax. It isn’t an all-inclusive list.

• Socks and stockings
• Pantyhose, support hose and hosiery
• Shoes and sneakers
• Shoe insoles
• Steel-toed shoes
• Footlets and boots
• Baby receiving blankets
• Infant and adult diapers
• Lab coats
• Gloves and mittens
• Bathing suits and swimwear
• Aprons
• Belts and suspenders
• Coats and jackets
• Hats and caps
• Formal wear
• Wedding apparel
• Neckties, ties, and scarves
• Sandals and slippers
• Underwear
• Uniforms of all kinds
• Rainwear
• Overshoes
• Rubber boots

Although Oklahoma doesn’t have tax exemptions on layaway as other states often do, they do allow for a tax exemption during one circumstance. If eligible items were placed on the layaway prior to the tax holiday and the consumer pays off the layaway balance during the exemption period, then the eligible items will be free of the sales tax.

For more information on Oklahoma’s sales tax holiday, visit the website at ok.gov.

South Carolina Tax-Free Weekend

South Carolina’s sales tax holiday begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Sunday, August 4, 2019. Unique to South Carolina, not only are clothing items, school supplies, computers, and computer accessories exempt from the sales tax, but bed and bath items are exempt as well. In addition to this, musical instruments that are used in school are counted under the “school supplies” category. Computer hardware is only exempt when bundled with a CPU.

However, the state does not have an exemption for any layaway plans.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Pants, trousers, and shorts
• Skirts and dresses
• Formal wear
• Riding pants
• School uniforms
• Shoes and boots
• Socks, pantyhose, and hosiery
• Hats and caps
• Raincoats
• Shawls and scarves
• Underwear and bras
• Pajamas and lingerie
• Galoshes and fishing boots
• Hunting vests
• Ice skates and roller skates
• Blue jeans and jogging suits
• Mittens and earmuffs
• Gloves
• Blouses
• Leggings and leotards
• Corsets

Listed below are school supplies that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Binders
• Notebooks and folders
• Pens and pencils
• Markers, colored pencils, and crayons
• Scissors and rulers
• Protractors and calculators
• Paper of all kinds
• Glue, glue sticks, and paste
• Erasers
• Lunchboxes
• Backpacks and book bags for school
• Books

Keep in mind that the school supply lists also include the computers and computer equipment as long as a CPU is part of the bundle. Any musical instrument that is needed for band class or school music lessons is also exempt from the sales tax.

With the exception of Massachusetts, South Carolina is one of the only state's to allow a sales tax exemption on bed and bath items and products. It's a great time to purchase items for holiday gifts. Many consumers prefer to start holiday shopping during the summer months. These tax-free holidays are wonderful opportunities to get a head start on that.

Listed below are bed and bath items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Blankets
• Bath towels
• Bathing clothes
• Comforters
• Pillows and pillowcases
• Wash clothes
• Bedsheets and linens
• Shower curtains
• Bath mats

For more information on South Carolina's sales tax holiday, visit the website at dor.sc.gov.

Tennessee Tax-Free Weekend

The Tennessee sales tax holiday begins on Friday, July 26, 2019, and ends on Sunday, July 28, 2019. Clothing and school supply items are exempt as long as they are individually priced at $100 or less. Computers are exempt as long as they are individually priced at $1,500 or less. (This also includes laptops and tablets.)

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Pants, trousers, and blue jeans
• Shorts and skirts
• Dresses
• Shirts, sweatshirts, and sweaters
• Underwear and longjohns
• Socks, pantyhose, and hosiery
• Sneakers and sandals
• Boots
• Graduation caps and gowns
• Wedding gowns
• Tuxedos
• Scarves and shawls
• Gloves and mittens
• Pajamas, nightgowns, and bras
• Baby clothes and diapers
• Religious clothing and clerical vestments
• Aerobic clothing and gym outfits
• Bibs
• Belts
• Ties and neckties
• Coats and jackets
• Cowboy boots and coveralls
• Galoshes and ponchos
• Shoe insoles
• Shoelaces
• Ski suits and masks
• Suspenders
• Support hose

Listed below are school supplies and computer items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Desktop computers
• Laptop computers
• Tablets
• Pens and pencils
• Erasers
• Markers and highlighters
• Glue, glue sticks, and paste
• Scissors and rulers
• Protractors and calculators
• Notebooks
• Binders
• Folders
• Paper of all kinds
• Writing tablets
• Art supplies
• Index cards and index card boxes
• Crayons and colored pencils
• Compasses
• Clear tape
• Backpacks and book bags
• Blackboard chalk

Remember that all computer items must be priced at $1,500 or less in order to qualify for the exemption. For more information on Tennessee's sales tax holiday, visit the website at tn.gov.

Texas Tax-Free Weekend

The Texas sales tax holiday begins on Friday, August 9, 2019, and ends on Sunday, August 11, 2019. The state exempts clothing, school supplies, and backpack items from the sales tax. Each item must be priced at $100 or less in order to qualify for the tax exemption.

Unfortunately, Texas does not provide the exemption on “buy one, get one free” bundles. However, there are some layaway exceptions. If a layaway order is paid off during the tax-free period, the eligible items will be exempt from the sales tax. This is beneficial to consumers that are seeking the best deal possible.

Texas also does not include tax exemptions for computers and textbooks.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax.

• Shoes (general)
• Safety shoes for everyday wear
• Flip-flops
• Sneakers
• Sandals and slippers
• Pajamas and nightgowns
• Suits and slacks
• Jackets and coats
• Sweatsuits and jogging suits
• Socks and stockings
• Shorts and skirts
• Ties, scarves, and neckties
• Underclothes
• Uniforms for school and work
• Shirts
• Robes and housecoats
• Raincoats and ponchos
• Pants
• Pantyhose
• Tights and leotards
• Knitted caps and hats
• Blue jeans
• Leg warmers
• Gym suits
• Golf skirts and shirts
• Dresses
• Football jerseys
• Gloves (general) and mittens
• Diapers
• Religious clothing and clerical vestments
• Bowling shirts
• Coveralls
• Blouses
• Baseball jerseys
• Aprons
• Baby clothes and bibs

Listed below are school supplies that are exempt from the sales tax:

• Binders and notebooks
• Folders
• Paper of all kinds
• Pens and pencils
• Crayons, colored pencils, and markers
• Scissors
• Rulers and protractors
• Clear tape
• Index cards and index card boxes
• Highlighters
• Erasers
• Compasses
• Glue, glue sticks and paste
• Lunchboxes
• Pencil sharpeners
• Backpacks and book bags
• Calculators
• Legal pads
• Writing tablets

For more information on the Texas sales tax holiday, visit the website at comptroller.texas.gov.

Virginia Tax-Free Weekend

Virginia's sales tax holiday begins on Friday, August 2, 2019, and ends on Sunday, August 4, 2019. Consumers can purchase school supplies, specified clothing items, hurricane prep items, and Energy Star and WaterSense products that are exempt from the sales tax.

School supplies must be priced at $20 or less. Clothing must be priced at $100 or less.

Hurricane prep items are split as follows:

• Portable generators must be $1,000 or less
• Gas-powered chainsaws must be $350 or less
• Chainsaw equipment must be $60 or less
• Various hurricane prep items must be $60 or less

The Energy Star and WaterSense products must be $2,500 or less.

Layaway items are exempt from the sales tax if the eligible items are selected and the order is received during the tax holiday. This also includes delivery of the layaway order after the tax holiday has ended. For consumers that are highly dependable upon layaway options, this is a great time to partake in an incredible savings event.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales list. This isn’t an all-inclusive list.

• Binders, folders, composition books, and notebooks
• Pens, colored pencils, and pencils
• Erasers, glue, glue sticks and paste
• Markers, highlighters, and crayons
• Musical instruments for school and sheet music
• Calculators
• Paper of all kinds
• Rulers
• Protractors
• Tissue
• Hand sanitizer
• Disinfectant wipes
• Scissors
• Art supplies
• Backpacks and book bags
• Textbooks

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax. This isn’t an all-inclusive list.

• Pants, blue jeans, and shorts
• Dresses and skirts
• Shirts and sweaters
• Fur coats
• Coats and jackets
• Underwear
• Socks and stockings
• Shoes and boots
• Steel-toed shoes
• Shoelaces
• Wedding dresses
• Formal wear
• Baby clothes and bibs
• Infant and adult diapers
• Shoe insoles
• Choral clothing

Listed below are hurricane items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Artificial ice and ice packs
• Batteries
• Weather radios
• Flashlights
• Lanterns
• Two-way radios
• Duct tape
• Ratchet straps
• Bottled water
• Cellular phone chargers
• Bungee cords
• Plastic sheets
• Drop cloths and tarps
• Tie-down kits
• Fire extinguishers
• Non-electric food storage coolers
• Hand-held can openers
• First aid kits

For more information on Virginia’s sales tax holiday, visit the website at tax.virginia.gov.

Wisconsin Tax-Free Weekend

Unfortunately, Wisconsin will not be participating in a sales tax holiday for 2019. The last tax holiday the state held was in 2018. Thus far, there's no indication of when the state will participate in the tax holiday.

For more information on Wisconsin's tax-free participation, visit this website at revenue.wi.gov.

Tax-Free Week New York

New York no longer has a tax free week. The state repealed it. However, New York City allows a sales tax exemption throughout the entire year. It never ends. Eligible items must be $110.00 or less to qualify for the sales tax exemption.

Listed below are clothing items that are exempt from the sales tax. This is not an all-inclusive list.

• Pants, blue jeans, and trousers
• Dresses and skirts
• Shirts, sweaters, and sweatsuits
• Formal wear
• Underwear
• Socks, stockings, and hosiery
• Ties, neckties, and scarves
• Hats and caps
• Coats and jackets
• Uniforms
• Shoes and boots
• Sandals and slippers
• Pajamas, nightgowns, and lingerie
• Sneakers and tennis shoes
• Bras
• Baby clothing and diapers

In addition to clothing and footwear items that are exempt from the sales tax, New York City also allows other items and necessities for exemption. The list below is not all-inclusive.

• Medications and drugs
• Laundry services
• Dry cleaning services
• Shoe repair services
• Eyeglasses and hearing aids
• Newspapers
• Magazines
• Medical equipment and supplies (home use only)
• Packaged foods
• Unprepared foods
• Veterinary services

New York City residents and visitors partake and enjoy the sales tax exemption daily. Many consumers and avid shoppers flock to famous department stores in the heart of the city to take advantage of the tax exemption deals. Other consumers that live in close proximity to the area purposely take longer trips to reap the benefits of lower costs for medical equipment and medications. For example, New Jersey charges sales tax and doesn't provide consumers with any tax-free holidays. Therefore, some New Jersey residents are willing to drive to New York City to purchase items and necessities that are free of the sales tax.

The Big Apple has its reasons for alleviating the sales tax. The more consumers that visit, the more income that will be earned for the state. (However, as with anything, the lack of a sales tax is replenished elsewhere for New York City residents.)

Conclusion

There are five states that don't charge consumers sales tax. These states are Oregon, Montana, New Hampshire, Alaska, and Delaware. Shoppers can look at the price tag and know exactly the amount that they will pay. For shoppers that are accustomed to paying sales tax on a daily basis, this can feel like a vacation from overspending.

There are 17 states that do charge sales taxes on items on a regular basis but provide sales tax holidays yearly. There are also states that always charge sales tax and never provide consumers with a tax-free holiday.

It's important to study the specifics on any state's sales tax holiday since each state varies slightly from the other. For example, Arkansas allows umbrellas to be included in its tax exemption holidays while Texas does not. Ohio is really strict on its tax exemption list while Massachusetts is really generous. Some states allow for layaway plans to be included while others do not. Moreover, Oklahoma is the only state to allow the tax exemption on the popular sales bundle, "buy one, get one free." Many shoppers that live on the Arkansas and Oklahoma state line participate in the tax-free holiday in Arkansas and Oklahoma for this very reason.

If a shopping plan is carefully charted out, consumers can walk away with incredible deals. Always research and know the specific tax-free holiday laws for each state. It literally pays off to have that knowledge.

If you are short on cash heading into the back-to-school season, you may consider using an online payday loan to help cover the expenses.

The sales tax holidays for 2019 are right around the corner. Consumers that are shopping for real deals should know the sales tax exemption lists. Other than Black Friday, the beginning of the holiday shopping season, these sales tax holidays usually earn the second-highest merchandising profits for any participating state. It works for the consumer and for the state.