A tax-free weekend is a limited period when states suspend the collection of sales taxes on specific items, helping consumers save money. These holidays often coincide with seasonal needs—like back-to-school shopping—and encourage people to make essential purchases. While most of these holidays span a weekend, some states offer longer periods or multiple events throughout the year.
Popular tax-free categories include clothing, school supplies, electronics and emergency-preparedness items. However, the scope and duration of the holiday vary by state, and some municipalities still impose local taxes, even when the state sales tax is suspended.
States without sales tax, such as Alaska, Oregon and New Hampshire, don’t need these holidays. However, they may offer localized promotions or exemptions to boost local economies.
Why Do States Offer Tax-Free Holidays?
Sales tax holidays aim to boost consumer spending while providing tax relief, especially during financially demanding times like back-to-school season. Advocates argue that these holidays support households by reducing the burden of state taxes on essential goods while also stimulating the economy.
However, some critics argue that tax-free holidays only shift purchasing behavior rather than generate sustained economic growth. Some also note that the limited scope (specific items and price caps) creates challenges for consumers and businesses alike. Still, the popularity of these events persists, partly because they appeal to voters and offer visible financial relief.
Comprehensive List of Tax-Free States and Their 2025 Schedules
Back-to-School Tax-Free Weekends
Many states align their tax-free holidays with the back-to-school season, targeting families buying supplies for the upcoming academic year.
- Alabama (July 19-21): Clothing ($100 limit), computers ($750 limit), school supplies ($50 limit).
- Florida (July 29-August 11): Computers and related accessories ($1,500 limit), school supplies ($50), learning aids ($30).
- Texas (August 9-11): Most clothing, footwear, and school supplies (each under $100).
- Connecticut (August 18-24): Clothing and footwear (under $100 per item).
- Missouri (August 2-4): Electronics ($1,500 limit), school supplies ($50), clothing ($100 per item).
Disaster Preparedness Tax Holidays
Some states offer holidays to encourage the purchase of emergency-preparedness supplies, ensuring residents are ready for extreme weather or other emergencies.
- Florida (August 24-September 6): Portable generators (up to $3,000), fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and other preparedness items.
- Alabama (February 23-25): Generators (up to $1,000), batteries and other severe weather essentials.
Specialty Tax Holidays
In addition to school and emergency-preparedness holidays, some states offer tax-free events focused on niche categories or local economic incentives.
- Mississippi: 2nd Amendment Weekend (August 30-September 1) exempts firearms, ammunition and hunting supplies.
- New Mexico: Small Business Saturday (November 30) offers tax-free purchases at small, local businesses.
Tax-Free Weekend Rules by State
Each state imposes different rules regarding which items are exempt during the holiday and what price caps apply. Here’s a breakdown of typical rules:
- Price caps: Many states limit individual item prices. For instance, clothing might need to cost under $100 per item, and computers may have a cap of $1,500.
- Excluded items: Some items, like accessories or protective sports gear, are often excluded.
- Local tax exceptions: Even during state tax holidays, some cities or counties may still collect local taxes, depending on participation.
For example, Missouri’s tax-free weekend includes most electronics and school supplies but limits each item to specific dollar amounts. Meanwhile, Maryland’s tax holiday exempts clothing and backpacks, but only for the first $40 of backpack purchases.
Tips for Maximizing Savings
- Plan ahead: Research eligible items and prepare a shopping list to take full advantage of the tax holiday.
- Combine with store promotions: Many retailers run additional sales during tax-free weekends, allowing consumers to double down on savings.
- Check online eligibility: Some states extend the tax holiday to online purchases, so consumers can shop from home without missing out.
- Watch for limits: Pay attention to item caps. For instance, a computer purchase might qualify only if the total is below a certain threshold (e.g., $1,500 in Florida).
States Without a Tax-Free Weekend
While many states participate in tax-free weekends, some have chosen not to implement them, focusing instead on lower overall sales taxes or different tax structures. Notable states without tax-free holidays include:
- Colorado: Though it has one of the lowest state sales tax rates (3%), Colorado does not offer a tax-free weekend.
- Alaska, Oregon, Montana, New Hampshire and Delaware: These states do not levy state sales taxes, rendering tax-free holidays unnecessary.
Consumers in these states can explore alternative ways to save, such as shopping online or timing purchases with retailer-specific promotions.
Is a Tax-Free Weekend Worth It?
Tax-free weekends offer a great opportunity to save on essential items, especially for families preparing for the school year or individuals stocking up on emergency supplies. While the savings may be significant on high-ticket items like computers and appliances, it’s important to plan and understand the limitations to avoid frustration.
However, consumers should also be mindful of the drawbacks—crowded stores, restricted eligibility and the potential for local taxes to still apply. Overall, a tax-free weekend is worth it if approached strategically, helping you save money while meeting your seasonal shopping needs.
