Texas Tax-free Weekend 2026, Dates, Rules, And What Counts

If you've ever raised kids in Texas, you know exactly what this time of year feels like.

As the father of eight children who all attended Wylie ISD here in Abilene, I can still remember those back-to-school shopping trips with my wife. The kids couldn't wait to pick out their favorite notebooks, backpacks, shoes, and school supplies. It was exciting for them, and a challenge for Mom and Dad's budget.

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That feeling came rushing back this past weekend.

While shopping around Abilene for a few home improvement items, I noticed Walmart, Target, United Supermarkets, Market Street, and several other stores filling their shelves with back-to-school merchandise. Then, while helping at Hart's BBQ's Backpack Giveaway, several parents told me they were waiting for Texas' annual Tax-Free Weekend before doing most of their shopping.

If you're planning to do the same, here's what you need to know.

Tax-Free Weekend Dates

According to the Texas Comptroller's Office, the 2026 Texas Sales Tax Holiday begins Friday, Aug. 7, and runs through midnight Sunday, Aug. 9.

During those three days, many qualifying items priced under $100 can be purchased without paying state sales tax.

What Can You Buy Tax-Free?

Most qualifying purchases include:

Clothing
Footwear
Backpacks
Many school supplies

The tax exemption applies whether you shop in a Texas store, online, by phone, or through a catalog seller doing business in Texas.

A Few Things to Remember

The $100 limit includes certain shipping or delivery charges if they're part of the total purchase price.

For online purchases, your payment must be successfully completed during the tax-free weekend time. Even if your order arrives later, it can still qualify as long as the purchase was completed before the holiday ends.

If you're accidentally charged sales tax on a qualifying purchase, ask the retailer for a refund. If necessary, the Texas Comptroller's Office provides a process for requesting a refund directly.

Before You Head Out

Back-to-school shopping can get expensive, and every little bit of savings helps.

I still smile thinking about our eight kids getting excited over new notebooks, backpacks, and school supplies before another year at Wylie ISD. Those shopping trips created memories our family still talks about today.

Before you head to the checkout, take a few minutes to review the complete list of qualifying items and official rules on the Texas Comptroller's website. A little planning now could save you money and help you avoid surprises at the register.