Texas emergency supplies tax holiday 2024
As Texas prepares for the upcoming storm and hurricane season, residents can take advantage of a tax holiday for emergency supplies.
Scheduled for the last weekend of April, this tax break allows Texans to stock up on necessary items without paying sales tax.
Overview of the tax holiday
Dates and duration
The tax-free period begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, and concludes at midnight on Monday, April 29, 2024.
This gives Texans a full weekend to purchase necessary supplies ahead of storm season.
Importance of the tax holiday
With experts predicting a highly active hurricane season and the recent occurrence of severe weather events across Texas, the tax holiday is strategically scheduled to help residents prepare effectively by purchasing essential supplies at a lower cost.
Eligible items for the tax holiday
High-value items: Portable generators costing less than $3,000 are eligible.
Mid-range items: Emergency ladders and hurricane shutters priced under $300.
Commonly needed supplies: Items under $75 such as:
- Batteries of various types
- Non-electric can openers
- First aid kits
- Fire extinguishers
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- And many more essentials for disaster preparedness
Items labeled with a "Drug Facts" panel are exempt regardless of the tax holiday due to their classification under FDA regulations.
Exclusions from the tax holiday
Certain necessary emergency items are not included in the tax holiday:
- Medical and face masks
- Most cleaning supplies
- Various types of gloves
- Toilet paper
- Specific batteries for vehicles
- Outdoor and camping gear like tents and chainsaws
Purchasing options and tips
How to make qualifying purchases
Texans can buy eligible items in-store or through online, telephone, or mail order to take advantage of the tax exemption.
The key is that the transaction must be completed during the holiday period.
Considerations for remote purchases
For online or telephone purchases:
- The sale must be finalized during the holiday dates.
- Even if delivery happens after the holiday, the purchase will still qualify if the transaction was completed within the designated period.
Monitoring total costs
Watch for additional fees such as shipping or handling that might push the total cost over the eligible price limit, resulting in taxation.
More information
For more detailed guidelines on eligible items and specific shopping advice, please visit the Texas Comptroller’s website.
This resource offers comprehensive information to help residents fully benefit from the tax holiday.