Clothing sales tax holiday Aug. 21-23

August 14, 2009 — Back-to-school shoppers can take advantage of the State of Texas’ Clothing Sales Tax Holiday, which will be held Friday-Sunday, Aug. 21-23, 2009.

During this three-day holiday, customers will be exempt from the 8.25-percent sales tax charge for most clothing and footwear priced under $100. Backpacks priced under $100 that are used by elementary and secondary students are exempt; however, certain backpacks defined as luggage, athletic or computer bags are not exempt.

The 81st Texas Legislature passed HB 1801 this year, expanding the list of items qualifying for exemption from Texas state and local sales and use taxes during the annual sales tax holiday. Effective this year, in addition to clothes, footwear and some 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.

For a full list of tax-free and taxable items during this holiday, please refer to the website of Susan Combs, Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, at www.window.state.tx.us.