When Arkansas Tax-Free Weekend Happens

Arkansas holds its tax-free weekend in early August each year. In 2024, the event runs from August 3 through August 4. During these two days, you pay no state or local sales tax on certain school supplies and clothing purchases—a savings that varies depending on what you buy and your local tax rate.

The exact dates shift slightly from year to year because Arkansas ties tax-free weekend to the first Saturday in August. If you plan to shop during this period, mark your calendar early, since many retailers advertise the event weeks in advance and stock up on popular items.

Key Takeaways

  • Arkansas tax-free weekend occurs the first Saturday and Sunday in August each year; in 2024 that is August 3–4.
  • The tax break applies to school supplies under $100 per item and clothing under $100 per item, but not shoes, accessories, or equipment.
  • You save your local sales tax rate on each may have access to purchase—typically 7 to 9 percent depending on your county.
  • Most major retailers participate, but call ahead or check their websites if you plan to buy from a smaller store.

What Items may have access to for the Tax Break

School supplies under $100 per item are tax-free during the weekend. This includes notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, binders, calculators, backpacks, and similar items. If a single item costs $100 or more, the entire purchase is taxed—there is no partial exemption.

Clothing under $100 per item also qualifies. Shirts, pants, dresses, jackets, socks, and underwear are all included. However, shoes, belts, hats, and other accessories do not may have access to, even if they cost less than $100. Items like sports equipment, computers, and furniture are also taxed normally.

The $100 threshold applies per item, not per transaction. If you buy five notebooks at $15 each, all five are tax-free. If you buy one backpack for $120, that backpack is taxed at the full rate.

How Much You Save

Your savings depend on your local sales tax rate, which varies by county and city in Arkansas. Most areas charge between 7 and 9 percent in combined state and local tax. On a $50 backpack, you might save $3.50 to $4.50. On $200 worth of school supplies spread across multiple items under $100 each, you could save $14 to $18.

The savings add up quickly if you shop for multiple children or buy in bulk. Many families use tax-free weekend to stock up on supplies they know they will need throughout the school year, since the discount applies only during those two days.

Where to Shop During Tax-Free Weekend

Major retailers like Walmart, Target, Kohl's, and Old Navy all participate in Arkansas tax-free weekend. Department stores, office supply chains, and most clothing retailers honor the exemption. However, participation is not mandatory—some smaller stores or specialty shops may not participate.

If you plan to shop at a specific store, call ahead or check their website to confirm they are participating. Most retailers advertise their tax-free weekend plans in early August. Online shopping during tax-free weekend is generally not may be able to access for the tax break unless the retailer specifically offers it, so in-store shopping is your safest bet.

What Happens at Checkout

You do not need a coupon, code, or special card to receive the tax break. When you buy a may have access to item under $100, the cashier straightforward does not charge sales tax. The exemption is automatic—the store's system recognizes the item type and price and removes the tax.

If you buy an item that costs $100 or more, or an item that does not may have access to (like shoes), tax will be charged normally. Keep your receipt in case you need to return an item, since the tax-free status is recorded there.

Planning Your Shopping Strategy

Many shoppers arrive early on Saturday morning to avoid crowds and find the best selection. Popular items like backpacks, notebooks, and basic clothing sell quickly during the weekend. If you know what you need, making a list before you shop saves time and helps you stay within budget.

Consider shopping on Sunday if Saturday is too crowded. Both days offer the same tax break, so you have flexibility. If you wait until late Sunday afternoon, you may find picked-over inventory, but you will also encounter fewer shoppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to shop in person, or can I order online?

Most online orders do not may have access to for the tax break unless the retailer specifically offers it during tax-free weekend. Call the store or check their website before ordering. In-store shopping is the most reliable way to receive the exemption.

What if an item costs exactly $100?

Items priced at $100 or more are taxed at the full rate. Only items under $100 may have access to. If a backpack is $99.99, it is tax-free; if it is $100.00, you pay tax on it.

Can I return items bought during tax-free weekend after the event ends?

Yes. You can return tax-free weekend purchases after the event ends. The store will refund the price you paid, which did not include tax. Keep your receipt to make the return easier.

Are online-only retailers like Amazon participating?

Amazon and most online-only retailers do not participate in Arkansas tax-free weekend. Stick with major brick-and-mortar stores or their official websites if they offer the exemption. Call ahead to confirm.

Does the tax break explore to used clothing or supplies?

The exemption applies to new items only. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and secondhand retailers are not required to participate, though some may choose to.