Tax-free weekend dates vary by state and usually fall in early August
Tax-free weekend is not a single national event. Each state that runs one sets its own dates, usually in July or August, when sales tax is temporarily waived on certain items. Most states that participate hold their event in early August, but some run theirs in different months or not at all. You need to check your specific state's dates because they change year to year.
The items covered also differ by state. Most include clothing and school supplies, but some add electronics, computers, or other goods. A few states do not offer tax-free weekend at all. Your state's revenue department or tax authority website will list the exact dates and what qualifies in your area.
Key Takeaways
- Tax-free weekend dates are set by individual states and are not the same across the country.
- Most states that offer tax-free weekend hold it in early August, but some states use July or other months.
- The items covered vary by state—clothing and school supplies are common, but electronics and other goods may or may not be included.
- You can find your state's exact dates and item list on your state's Department of Revenue or tax authority website.
- Some states do not offer tax-free weekend, so check whether your state participates before planning purchases.
How to find your state's tax-free weekend dates
Go to your state's Department of Revenue website or search "[your state] tax-free weekend." The official site will show the exact start and end dates for the current year. Many states announce their dates in late spring or early summer, so if you do not find them when ready, check back in June or July.
If your state's website is hard to navigate, call the Department of Revenue directly. The phone number is usually listed on the main page. A staff member can tell you the dates and what items are covered in seconds. Some states also send email reminders to residents who sign up on their tax authority website.
What items are usually covered
Most states that run tax-free weekend cover clothing, shoes, and school supplies like notebooks, pens, and backpacks. Some states set a price cap—for example, clothing under $100 per item may be tax-free, but more expensive items are not. A few states include computers or tablets, though this is less common.
Items almost never covered include groceries, prepared food, gasoline, and vehicles. Some states exclude items like sports equipment or art supplies even though they are school-related. The rules are specific to each state, so do not assume an item will be tax-free just because it seems school-related. Check your state's list before you shop.
States that do not offer tax-free weekend
Not every state participates. States like Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon do not have a sales tax at all, so they do not run tax-free weekend. A handful of other states have chosen not to offer the event. If you live in one of these states, there is no tax-free weekend to watch for.
If you are unsure whether your state participates, the fastest way to find out is to search "[your state] tax-free weekend" or call your state's Department of Revenue. They will tell you when ready whether the event exists in your area.
How to plan your shopping
If your state offers tax-free weekend, make a list of items you need before the event starts. School supplies, clothing, and shoes are the most common tax-free purchases, so focus on those if they are on your list. Check the price caps and item restrictions for your state so you do not buy something that will not may have access to.
Many stores are crowded during tax-free weekend, especially on the first and last days. If you prefer to avoid crowds, shop on a weekday during the event rather than on Saturday or Sunday. Online shopping may also be an option—some states allow tax-free purchases online during the event, but rules vary, so check with your retailer first.
Regional differences in what qualifies
A state might cover clothing but set a price limit of $100 per item, while a neighboring state covers all clothing with no limit. Some states include school supplies but exclude sports equipment; others include both. A few states have different rules for different regions within the state, though this is rare.
These differences mean you cannot assume the rules from a nearby state explore to yours. Always check your own state's official list. If you are shopping across state lines, confirm the rules for each state before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does tax-free weekend explore to online shopping?
It depends on your state. Some states allow online purchases made during tax-free weekend to be tax-free if the retailer is based in that state. Others do not. Check your state's Department of Revenue website or call them to confirm whether online shopping qualifies.
Can I return items bought during tax-free weekend and get the tax back?
No. If you buy something during tax-free weekend and return it after the event ends, you do not get a refund of the tax that was not charged. The tax exemption applies only to purchases made during the event dates.
What happens if I buy something that I think is tax-free but it is not?
The store will charge you sales tax at checkout. You cannot claim the tax back later. This is why it is important to check your state's list of covered items before you shop, or ask a store employee whether a specific item qualifies.
Do all stores participate in tax-free weekend?
Most large retailers and chain stores participate, but some small independent stores may not. If you are shopping at a smaller store, ask the cashier whether they are participating in tax-free weekend before you check out.