As we enter the first week of August, back-to-school season has begun.

Take advantage of the upcoming Texas Sales Tax Holiday, August 7-9, 2026. Prepare now for the items your child needs in the classroom and lunchroom to set them up for success.

What qualifies for tax savings, and when

The Sales Tax Holiday, or Tax-Free Weekend, is designed to help families save on back-to-school essentials. There will be no sales tax on most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced under $100 at all Texas retail locations or at online retailers that ship to Texas. A complete list of tax-free items is on the Texas Comptroller’s website.

The first weekend in August is your opportunity to prepare for school and save money. A schoolteacher once said, “Preparation is the key to success—in the classroom and in life.”
 

Start with the basics

Visit the school district’s website and read through items in the corresponding category to decide what supplies to include in your child’s backpack and lunchbox. When looking at the school site online, you may link to your child’s teacher’s information and learn the expected items and quantities.

School supplies

Based on the district’s website, the specific teacher needs, and your child’s own requirements, verify that the school supplies needed are exempted by the Comptroller. There is a $100 price to qualify for the exemption on certain supplies commonly used in K-12 education. Electronic devices such as batteries, earphones, and laptops are not exempt.
 

Clothing and footwear

Many, yet not all, types of clothing and footwear are included during this holiday.

Consider buying an extra set of clothes for preschool children in case of an accident: Pack extra underwear, socks, a shirt and pants.
 

Backpacks and bookbags

During the holiday, backpacks, including wheeled backpacks, messenger bags and bookbags, are tax-exempt. According to the Comptroller’s site, one may buy up to 10 backpacks tax-free at one time. 

Most students will need a small- to medium-sized backpack, one that comfortably accommodates the essentials without being too bulky. The best size will vary depending on your child’s age and grade level.

Lunch boxes are exempt, too

The Comptroller specifically exempts lunch boxes from sales tax during the holiday. Consider an insulated box to keep food fresh, even when it’s 90+ degrees outside.

You can plan to give your student a healthy lunch, plus snacks. Fruits, vegetables, crackers or granola bars are healthier options.
 

Be prepared for winter weather

North Texans don’t usually think about rain or snow in August, yet they will be here soon. Ponchos, raincoats and rain hats are specifically exempted from sales tax during the holiday: umbrellas and overshoes, unfortunately, are not. Even winter clothing, such as coats, earmuffs, wraps and more, is exempt.
 

Other tips to consider

More back-to-school considerations:

• Stay organized: Use different compartments or pouches within the backpack to keep items separate and easy to find. 
• Pack lightly: Prevent back strain by avoiding unnecessary items. 
• Keep it clean: Regularly clean your backpack and lunchbox to prevent odors or germs.
• Review the Comptroller’s clothing and school supplies lists: Do you know that both preschool and adult diapers are tax-exempt during the holiday?

Participating in school offers valuable growth opportunities, both academically and socially. Being prepared for the classroom can help support your child throughout the academic year.

Have a great 2026-27 school year!
 

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