Emergency Supplies Will Be Tax Free One Weekend This Month in Texas

Spring time in East Texas brings many severe storms to the area. These storms could knock out power, take down trees and/or cause damage to your home or property. Being prepared in these types of situations is crucial. That's why later this month, you can pick up some supplies to be better prepared for severe weather, or any other emergency, and get those items without having to pay sales tax.

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For many years now right before school gets started, Texas will set aside a weekend to purchase school clothes and school supplies without having to pay sales tax on those items. That idea was expanded a few years ago to allow for a weekend in early spring where you could purchase emergency supplies sales tax free. These are for items that are much needed when severe weather moves through the area.

For 2022, that weekend will be April 23 through the 25 in Texas. There are many items that will qualify for the tax savings:

• Portable generators less than $3,000
• Emergency ladders and hurricane shutters less than $300

All of these items must be $75 or less to qualify:

• Axes
• Batteries (AAA, AA, C, D, 6 volt, 9 volt)
• Nonelectric can openers
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Nonelectric coolers and ice chests
• Fire extinguishers
• First aid kits
• Gas cans
• Anchors and tie downs
• Hatchets
• Reusable ice packs
• Candles, flashlights and lanterns
• Cell phone chargers
• Battery powered radios
• Smoke detectors
• Tarps

Items like camping supplies, wood, cleaning supplies, chainsaws and other items will not be eligible for tax exemptions. For a complete list of what is and is not eligible, go to comptroller.texas.gov.