As in previous years the law exempts most clothing and footwear priced under $100 from sales and use taxes which could save shoppers about $8 on every $100 they spend. Backpacks under $100 used by elementary and secondary students are also exempt. The backpack exemption includes backpacks with wheels provided they can also be worn on the back like a traditional backpack and messenger bags. The exemption does not include items that are reasonably defined as luggage briefcases athletic/duffle/gym bags computer bags purses or framed backpacks. The 81st Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1801 (2009) expanding the list of items qualifying for exemption from Texas state and local sales and use taxes during the annual Sales Tax Holiday. In addition to clothes footwear and backpacks Texas families also get a sales tax break on most school supplies priced at less than $100 purchased for use by a student in an elementary or secondary school. No exemption certificate is required for holiday purchases - with one exception. If the purchaser is buying the supplies under a business account the retailer must obtain an exemption certificate from the purchaser certifying that the items are purchased for use by an elementary or secondary school student. Under a business account" means the purchaser is using a business credit card or business check rather than a personal credit card or personal check. To assist families who are planning to take advantage of the savings the Comptrollers website provides a list of tax-free items. This list can be found online at https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-490/ If you have any questions regarding the annual Sales Tax Holiday please dont hesitate to contact either my Capitol or District office. Its a busy time of year for parents so my offices are available to assist at any time to with questions concerns or comments. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. As always my offices are available at any time to assist with questions concerns or comments (Capitol Office 512-463-0672; District Office 361-949-4603).The tax holiday weekend has been an annual event since 1999. This year Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar predicts shoppers will save nearly $87 million in state and local sales taxes during the holiday which takes place each year.
- State Representative Todd Hunter District 32
