When Is Tax-Free Weekend & How Does It Work?

If you've ever wondered, ‘When is a tax-free weekend?’, then it’s time to finally find the answer. In this article, we will explore the specifics of tax-free weekends, including when they occur, how they work, and how long they last. These special weekends offer shoppers an opportunity to purchase certain items without paying sales tax, providing a great way to save funds on classroom materials, clothes, electronics, and more. Get ready to uncover the details and make the most of this advantageous shopping period.

What does a tax-free weekend mean exactly? Keep reading to find that out.

IRS Tax Forms

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What Is Tax-Free Weekend?

A tax-free weekend, also known as a sales tax holiday, is an event that occurs in several states in the US where specific items are exempt from sales tax for an established period of time. This exemption aims to encourage consumer spending and stimulate the economy. Here are some key points about the event:

  • What day is a tax-free weekend? The dates vary by state and may alter from year to year.
  • Eligible items. Each state comes with its own selection of tax-free items. 
  • Purchase limits. Some states impose price limits on eligible items, meaning only goods below a certain threshold qualify for the tax exemption.
  • Savings. Tax-free weekends can provide substantial savings, as shoppers can avoid paying sales tax on eligible products, which can range from a few percentage points to significant savings.
  • Restrictions. Not all states participate in sales tax holidays, and even in those states, certain items may not qualify for tax relief. Study your state's rules and limitations.

State Tax Forms

How Does Tax-Free Weekend Work?

During tax-free periods, eligible items are exempted from sales tax for a specific period of time. When making purchases during these weekends, customers do not have to pay the usual tax on an array of items. The specific rules and regulations for tax-free weekends vary by state, including the duration, eligible items, and price thresholds. 

Shoppers can take advantage of this opportunity to save money on goods such as clothes, classroom equipment, computers, energy-saving devices, and more. Not all states participate in tax-free weekends, and the exact details can change from year to year, so we recommend checking with official government sources or local retailers for the most recent info.

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When Is Tax-Free Weekend 2023: By State

Below, you’ll find state-specific information on the topic:

Tax-Free Weekend in Alabama

Dates: In the Heart of Dixie, the tax-free days for 2023 are scheduled to take place from July 21st to July 23rd.

Сonditions: During this period, certain items such as clothes, PCs, school equipment, and books are sales tax-free. The rule applies to individual items that cost $100 or less.

Tax-Free Weekend in Arkansas

Dates: In the Natural State, the taxless days for 2023 are expected to occur from August 5th to August 6th

Сonditions: During this time, shoppers can purchase clothes, shoes, and classroom equipment without paying sales tax. The rule applies to individual items priced at $100 maximum.

Tax-Free Weekend in Florida 

Dates: In the Sunshine State, the tax-free weekend for 2023 is expected to take place from July 28th to July 30th

Conditions: During this period, eligible items such as clothing, school supplies, and computers are free from sales tax. This ‘freedom’ applies to individual items priced at $60 or less. Online purchases are also available for a tax-free benefit.

Tax-Free Weekend in Iowa

Dates: In the Hawkeye State the tax free weekend begins at 12:01 a.m. August 4th and ends at 12:00 am midnight on August 5th

Conditions: The sales tax won’t be collected only for clothing and footwear that cost less than $100.

Tax-Free Weekend in Maryland

Dates: In the Old Line State, the tax-free period is scheduled to take place from August 13th to August 19th

Conditions: The weekend rules apply only to purchases of clothes and shoes that a cheaper than $100 will be free from the state's 6% sales tax. 

Tax-Free Weekend in MA

Dates: In the Old Bay State, the tax-free days for 2023 are anticipated to take place from August 12th to August 13th

Conditions: Most tangible personal property purchases under $2,500 are exempt from the state's 6.25% sales tax. The tax-free benefit applies to in-store and online purchases in Massachusetts.

Tax-Free Weekend in Mississippi

Dates:In the Magnolia State, the tax-free weekend for 2023 is projected to take place from July 28th to July 29th

Conditions: Clothes, shoes, and school equipment priced at $100 or less per item are exempt from the state's 7% sales tax. The rule applies to both in-store and online purchases.

Tax-Free Weekend in Missouri

Dates: In the Show-Me State, the sales tax holiday for 2023 is anticipated to occur from August 4th to August 6th

Conditions: Throughout this timeframe, eligible items such as clothes, classroom items, and PCs are free from the state sales tax, which is usually about 4.22%. The exemption applies to individual items with a price of $100 maximum. Online purchases are also eligible for the tax-free benefit.

Tax-Free Weekend in New Jersey 

Dates: In Garden State, the sales tax holiday will take place from August 26th through September 4th, 2023.

Conditions: PCs that cost less than $3,000, classroom items, and sports equipment are among the eligible items. Luckily, there’s no limit on the number of eligible items you may buy throughout this period.

Tax-Free Weekend in New Mexico 

Dates: In the Land of Enchantment, the sales tax freedom will occur from August 4th through August 6th, 2023. 

Conditions: During this period, the law provides a deduction from gross receipts for retail sales of eligible items; in effect allowing the retailer to sell the items ‘tax-free.’ To qualify for the deduction, clothes or shoes must cost $100 maximum, computers — $1,000 maximum, and classroom equipment — $30 per item maximum.

Tax-Free Weekend in Ohio

Dates: In the Buckeye State, the sales tax freedom for 2023 is anticipated to take place from August 4th to August 6th.

Conditions: During the tax-free weekend for Ohio, eligible items such as clothes, classroom items, and instructional materials that cost $20 maximum per item are free from the state sales tax. Online shopping is also available for a tax-free benefit. 

Tax-Free Weekend in Oklahoma

Dates: In the Sooner State, the sales tax-free period for 2023 is set to occur from August 4th to August 6th

Conditions: During this time, eligible goods such as clothes and shoes priced at $100 or less per item are free from state and local sales tax. Online purchases also fall into the tax-free category throughout this period of time.

Tax-Free Weekend in South Carolina

Dates: In the Palmetto State, the sales tax holiday for 2023 will take place from August 4th to August 6th

Conditions: During this period, eligible items including clothes, classroom equipment, PCs, and selected home goods are sold tax-free. Online purchases are eligible for the tax-free benefit during this period as well.

Tax-Free Weekend in Tennessee

Dates: In the Volunteer State, the sales tax holiday for 2023 is expected to occur from July 28th to July 30th

Conditions: During this period, eligible items such as clothes, school equipment, and PCs priced at $100 maximum per item get tax freedom. Online purchases are also up for tax-free grabs during this period.

Tax-Free Weekend in Texas 

Dates: In the Lone Star State, the 2023 tax-free period is anticipated to take place from August 11th to August 13th

Conditions: During this time, eligible goods such as clothes, classroom equipment, and backpacks priced at $100 maximum per item are sold tax-free. Online purchases will also work on the above-described tax-free basis during this period. 

Tax-Free Weekend in Virginia

Dates: Alas, there’s no longer a tax-free holiday in the Old Dominion. Many parents usually make the most of shopping in August, but the holiday expires on July 1 this summer, according to the info from the Virginia Department of Taxation.

Tax-Free Weekend in West Virginia

Dates: In Mountain State, the tax-free weekend for 2023 is projected to occur from August 4th to August 7th

Conditions: During this time, eligible goods that cost $2,500 maximum per item are sold tax-free. The rule covers online shopping throughout this period, as well. 

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Tips for Tax-Free Weekend

Here's a list of useful tips to help you better prepare and make the most of this period of significant financial freedom:

  • Research the Dates. Find out the specific dates of the period in your state. Check official government websites or consult with local retailers to ensure that you don't miss them out.
  • Understand Eligible Items. Explore the selection of eligible goods that qualify for tax relief. Each state has its own rules and limitations, so knowing what's included can help you plan your purchases like a pro.
  • Create a Shopping List. Make a list of goods you need to purchase during the period. Having a list will help you keep a laser-like focus on shopping.
  • Research Prices Beforehand. Compare prices of the items on your shopping list before the tax-free period. This way, you can ensure you're getting the best deal and maximize your savings.
  • Shop Early. Plan to start your shopping early. Stores can get crowded, and popular items may be quickly sold out. By starting early, you'll have a better chance to find everything you need and avoid long lines.
  • Look for Additional Discounts. Take advantage of ongoing sales, promotions, and coupons in conjunction with the tax-free weekend. Retailers often offer additional discounts during this time, allowing you to stack your savings.
  • Consider Online Shopping. Check if your state is available for tax-free digital shopping during the designated period. Online shopping is convenient and comes with an array of options. Just ensure you are buying from reputable retailers.
  • Share & Care: Share the information about the upcoming tax-free period with your family and friends. They might also benefit from the savings and appreciate the heads-up.

Does Tax-Free Weekend Work Online?

The inclusion of online purchases in these tax-free periods varies from state to state. While some states allow tax exemptions for online shopping during the timeframe, others may not extend the benefit to online retailers. It's crucial to check the guidelines set by your state's tax authority to determine whether online purchases qualify for tax relief. 

Additionally, even if online shopping is available, it's important to note that not all online retailers may participate. It's advisable to check with individual retailers for a comprehensive understanding of whether the tax-free weekend applies to online purchases and which specific retailers are participating.

FAQ

What does tax-free weekend include?

They typically include specific items that are free from sales tax during the designated period. Clothes, classroom equipment, electronics, and, sometimes, energy-saving gadgets are among the commonly included items. However, the specific eligible items may vary by state.

Does tax-free weekend apply to Amazon?

It depends on the state. While some states include Amazon and other online purchases in the tax exemption, others may not. We recommend that you check the specific rules and guidelines of your state's tax authority for clarification.

How long does a tax-free weekend last?

The duration varies by state. Typically, these events last for a few days, often spanning a weekend. However, the exact length can differ, ranging from two to three days. We recommend that you check the specific dates for your state in advance.

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