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Texans are expected to save millions in sales taxes on emergency supplies—everything from tarps to generators—during an annual tax holiday April 25-27.
The overview
With Texas’ hurricane and wildfire seasons looming, residents will not have to pay the 6.25% state sales tax on most items used in emergencies, the state comptroller’s office said in an April 16 news release.
State lawmakers approved the sales tax holiday in 2015.
“From hailstorms to hurricanes, Texans know the importance of being prepared when bad weather hits,” Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock said in a statement. “This sales tax holiday provides a great opportunity to stock up on supplies and save a little money while you’re at it.”
How it works
The sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. April 24 and lasts until midnight April 27.
Texans are expected to save about $2.4 million in state and local taxes, according to the comptroller’s office. Last year, Texans saved about $2.3 million, agency spokesperson Kevin Lyons said.
Zooming in
According to the comptroller’s office, items qualify for the tax exemption if they are priced at:
The sales tax exemption can also be applied to online purchases, the comptroller’s office said, and customers are required to pay for delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges. There are no limits on the number of supplies residents can buy.
More information on the supplies eligible for the emergency preparation sales tax exemption can be found on the comptroller’s website.
