Tax-Free Weekend Shopping Tips for 2025

Tax-Free Weekend Savings Strategies

Tax-free weekends, also called sales tax holidays, are observed in various states across the United States. These events are established by legislation to allow consumers to purchase specific items without being charged state sales tax. School supplies, clothing, and electronics are typically included in the exemptions.

Participation in these holidays is determined by individual state and sometimes local government rules. Shopping tips are often shared by retailers and financial advisors to help savings be maximized during the tax-free window. Guidelines regarding eligible items, price thresholds, and local taxes must be reviewed carefully before shopping.

Online purchases can also be included in tax-free benefits, as long as the purchases are made within the official holiday period and meet all applicable requirements. By making a shopping list, setting a clear budget, and researching store deals in advance, optimal savings can be achieved.

How Tax-Free Weekends Work Across the U.S.

In the United States, tax-free weekends have been adopted to offer consumers relief from sales tax on select purchases. These events are commonly scheduled ahead of back-to-school season, allowing purchases of clothes, shoes, and classroom supplies to be made without the added cost of sales tax.

State participation is not uniform, so confirmation of eligibility within your location must be done. Rules and eligible items are determined by each jurisdiction, and lists are usually published in advance. Significant savings can be achieved if shopping is planned according to official exemptions.

Sales tax holidays are designed to stimulate spending and assist households in managing seasonal expenses. In some cases, energy-efficient appliances and emergency supplies are also included. Oversight and coordination are often supported by the Federation of Tax Administrators (FTA), where official resources and guidance can be accessed.

What to Expect During a Tax-Free Weekend

Sales tax holidays are scheduled periods during which qualifying purchases are not subject to state sales tax. The duration of these holidays varies by state, ranging from a single day to an entire week.

Eligible items are defined by law, and price caps are typically enforced. For instance, computers priced under $1,000, backpacks under $100, and classroom items under $50 may be exempted. However, items designed exclusively for recreational or protective use are generally excluded.

The exemption is applied only if the final purchase price, including shipping and handling, remains under the state-mandated limit. Local tax laws may differ, and additional charges may still be applied in certain municipalities. Consumers are advised to consult local tax offices or state websites for the most accurate information.

Dates and States Participating in 2025

As shared by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue on June 12, 2025, the state’s sales tax holiday is scheduled for August 9 and 10. During this weekend, shoppers can skip the 6.25% sales tax on most items priced under $2,500, including everyday purchases like clothing, electronics, and school supplies. It’s a great time to stock up without the added tax.

Meanwhile, details from the Texas Comptroller’s Office in April 2025 highlight two tax-free events. The first runs from May 24 to 26 and covers Energy Star appliances so if you’re buying energy-efficient items like air conditioners or refrigerators, there’s no sales tax, regardless of price. The second is the Back-to-School Tax-Free Weekend from August 8 to 10, which lets you buy clothes, backpacks, and school supplies under $100 per item without paying tax.

Tax-free holidays in 2025 have been scheduled in various states, with dates and eligibility rules differing by location. The following examples provide a snapshot of the differences:

Dates and price caps are determined by state legislation and are subject to change. Charts published by the FTA and individual state agencies should be consulted for official details.

Items Commonly Eligible for Sales Tax Savings

Items such as clothing, footwear, backpacks, and school supplies are most often included in tax-free weekends. Qualifying items must meet specific price limits and general-use criteria.

Products used for specialized purposes, such as sports uniforms, protective footwear, and fashion accessories, are typically excluded from the exemption. Proper planning and knowledge of eligibility rules can result in better savings.

Exemptions are commonly applied to the following:

• General clothing priced below $100 per item
• Footwear that is not designed for sports or workplace safety
• Backpacks and school bags priced under a specific threshold, such as $100 in Texas

Everyday items such as jeans, shirts, and sneakers are generally included, while items like wallets, belts, and purses are excluded. State-published lists should be reviewed to determine precise eligibility.

Electronics and Special Purchases

Electronics are often included in sales tax holidays when used for education or home use. Computers under $1,000 and accessories under $500 are commonly exempted in states like New Mexico.

Energy-efficient appliances may also be purchased tax-free in certain states, such as Maryland, during designated Energy Star holidays. However, business-use equipment and certain add-ons are not typically covered. Shoppers are encouraged to verify all conditions in advance.

Smart Shopping Tips for Sales Tax Holidays

To get the most from tax-free weekends, careful preparation is recommended. Shopping lists should be created with reference to eligible items, and purchases should be prioritized based on personal or family needs.

Price limits and item categories must be confirmed, especially when planning to buy large or expensive items. Retail advertisements and store circulars can provide additional insight into promotional deals.

Shopping early is recommended to avoid long lines and sold-out stock. Crowds can be expected, especially on the first day of the holiday. Online shopping may be considered as an alternative if tax exemptions are still applied.

What You Need to Start Shopping Tax-Free

Several steps should be followed to prepare effectively:

• A shopping list should be created based on item eligibility.
• A budget should be determined to guide spending.
• Receipts should be kept in case tax refunds must be requested.
• State and local rules must be reviewed for exceptions and restrictions.

With proper planning, unnecessary purchases can be avoided, and tax savings can be maximized.

How to Shop Smart on Sales Tax Holidays

Tax-free weekends offer valuable opportunities to reduce spending. To take advantage of these savings, the following actions should be taken:

• State-specific dates and eligible items should be checked in advance.
• A spending budget should be created, and a list of essential items prepared.
• Stores that participate in the event should be identified beforehand.
• Crowds should be avoided by shopping early or purchasing online where allowed.

All receipts should be saved, and purchase details should be reviewed for accuracy. Mistaken charges can be corrected by referencing receipt data and state tax office guidance.

Research Local Rules Before Shopping

Local tax rules may still apply during statewide tax holidays. Some municipalities may impose local sales tax even if state tax is waived.

The FTA provides helpful charts that can be used to check exemptions by state and item. State and local tax department websites should be reviewed before shopping for large-ticket items or electronics.

Make a Budget and List for Shopping

Budgeting should be prioritized before participating in a sales tax holiday. A list of required items should be compiled and matched with price thresholds defined by the state.

For example, purchases such as backpacks under $100 or tablets under $500 should be identified. Expenses should be tracked to prevent budget overruns.

Receipts should be organized to ensure tax-free eligibility can be confirmed later. Refunds can be requested if taxes are mistakenly charged on eligible purchases.

Final Thoughts

Savings during tax-free weekends can be maximized when clear guidelines are followed. By understanding the rules, staying within price limits, and preparing a budget and list in advance, successful shopping outcomes can be achieved.

Rules may vary from state to state, so accurate information should be sought from official sources. With careful planning, shoppers can benefit from reduced costs on school essentials, electronics, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can online purchases qualify during tax-free weekends?

Yes, if the purchase is made during the official time period and the item qualifies under state rules, online orders can be tax-exempt. Shipping timing and seller location may affect eligibility, so official state guidance should be followed.

Are there limits on how much can be purchased tax-free?

Yes. Limits are applied on a per-item basis. For example, if clothing is eligible up to $100 per item, tax will be charged on any amount over that limit. These price caps are set by law and vary by state.

Do all retailers participate in tax-free weekends?

No. Participation is not required, and some stores may choose not to honor the exemptions. State or local websites should be reviewed for lists of participating businesses or for exemption charts.

What if a tax-free item needs to be returned?

Returns of tax-free items are usually handled based on store policy and tax law. A refund may be issued with or without a tax adjustment, depending on the circumstances. Receipts should be kept to support any refund request.

Written by David Chu Updated July 4, 2025 by Albert Fang