Sales Tax Holidays 2026: Here’s What You Need to Know

Quick links to specific states 1. Alabama 2. Arkansas 3. Connecticut 4. Florida 5. Illinois 6. Iowa 7. Maryland 8. Massachusetts 9. Mississippi 10. Missouri 11. New Mexico 12. Ohio 13. Oklahoma 14. Puerto Rico 15. South Carolina 16. Tennessee 17. Texas 18. Virginia 19. West Virginia Who doesn’t love seeing a lighter checkout total? Back-to-school shopping is fun until the checkout screen (and a smiling salesperson) reminds you that those notebooks, backpacks and laptops you picked up to cater to your child’s whims (or needs) have added up to a pretty good amount. And it’s not just school supplies — your wallet gets the biggest surprise at checkout when you’re shopping for clothes, dorm room essentials, surprise gifts for teachers or household stuff. That’s why every discount, no matter how small it is, feels big. After all, we aren’t paying full price at least. Now, here comes the good news — you don’t have to wait for another big sale to save.  Sales tax holidays have returned. Many US states are giving you a reason to smile at checkout once again. During these limited-time events, participating states temporarily waive or reduce sales tax on purchases. No sales tax means a smaller checkout total. Whether you’re buying a new bottle, upgrading your school laptop or just refreshing your summer wardrobe, it’s great when paying less doesn’t require a coupon code. You get an instant discount from the state. But what exactly is a sales tax holiday, and how does it work? Let’s break it down. What is a sales tax holiday? A sales tax holiday is a limited-time period when participating states suspend/reduce sales tax on a few qualifying items. Some tax holidays have become an annual tradition that’s followed every year; usually before the school reopens or before the summer commences. Each participating state has its own dates, list of eligible/ineligible items and spending limits. Let’s take a look at all the states that are following up with the tradition and helping you score savings. States with sales tax holidays There are 19 states that are offering sales tax holidays this year. They include: 1. Alabama Sales tax holiday dates: July 17 to 19 (expired) Included items Computers, school computer supplies and computer software Clothing School supplies Textbooks See the full list here. Excluded items Accessories Protective equipment Sports or recreational equipment Furniture 2. Arkansas Sales tax holiday dates: Aug. 1 to 2 Included items Electronic devices commonly used by a student in the course of study.  Clothing and footwear if the sales price is less than $100 per item Clothing accessories and equipment if the sales price is less than $50 per item School supplies School art supplies School instructional. See the full list here. Excluded items Sewing equipment and supplies Protective equipment Sports or recreational equipment. See the complete list here. Note Qualifying products purchased during the exemption period with rain check will qualify for the exemption regardless of when the rain check was issued. 3. Connecticut Sales tax holiday dates: Aug. 16 to 22 Included items Clothing and footwear (less than $300). See the full list here. Excluded items