Texas Sales Tax Holiday for Emergency Preparedness Supplies

Do you need a new generator? How about fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, or first aid kits? The State of Texas has a Sales Tax Holiday for these and many other emergency preparedness supplies. This tax-free weekend is the last weekend of April (48 hours, Saturday 12:01am through Monday 12:00am).

There is no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase; however, there are single item price limits (including shipping). For example, the tax-free price limit for generators is $3000. What that means is that the first $3000 is not taxed. If the generator price is below $3000, it is totally tax-free. If the generator price is $4000, tax is paid only on the excess above $3000 ($1000).

Other restrictions apply, i.e. you must pay for and receive the item during the exemption period OR the customer orders and pays for the item and the seller accepts the order during the exemption period for immediate shipment, even if delivery is made after the exemption period. This allows for online purchases, even if the item is out of stock or on backorder (per the Comptroller's site).

Note:  This tax holiday easily applies to "brick-and-mortar" (physical, walk-in) stores. Many (most?) online sellers will not recognize the Texas Sales Tax Holiday. However, you may request a refund of the sales tax. At the seller's discretion, they may grant the refund or provide a form that allows the purchaser to file the refund directly with the Comptroller's office. Visit https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/sales/refunds/ for more info about Sales Tax Refunds.

For details and a full list of supplies which qualify, visit:  https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1017.php