Texas Sales Tax Holiday For Emergency Supplies Begins April 24th

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It hasn't been that long since Texans went through a massive winter storm that knocked out power to millions across the state. Now we are in severe weather season and that means powerful storms that could produce tornados. And let's not forget that we are still in a pandemic and this time last year stores were running low on meat, toilet paper, and other goods.

In other words, it's good to be prepared for an emergency. Today, the Texas Comptrollers Office announced that April 24-26 will be the Sales Tax Holiday for emergency supplies.

According to the Texas Comptrollers office, there is no limit on the number of items you can buy that will be tax-free as long as they qualify.

The Comptroller’s office estimates shoppers will save more than $1.8 million in state and local sales taxes during the tax holiday, which was approved by the Texas Legislature in 2015.

There’s no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase. These include:

• household batteries, fuel containers and flashlights priced at less than $75;
• hurricane shutters and emergency ladders priced at less than $300; and
• portable generators priced at less than $3,000.

The Comptrollers office did make a note about online orders. Delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges are all part of the sales price. So a ladder that costs $299 in a store will be tax-free. But if you order a ladder online for $299 and there is a $10 delivery fee, tax will be due. So keep that in mind.

Some examples of purchases that do not qualify for tax-free status include, batteries for vehicles and boats, camping stoves and camping supplies, chainsaws, extension ladders and stepladders, and tents.

For a full list of items that will be tax-free, check out the Texas Comptroller's website.