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 19 states are offering sales tax holidays this year. The list below has all of them and what they offer in alphabetical order, but at the top of this article is a section called Quick links to specific states to help you jump to your state. Which states are offering a state tax holiday on tech? Looking to upgrade your laptop or other tech essentials before the next session starts? Here’s a list of nine states that are offering discounts on tech gear: Alabama: July 17 – 19 (expired). Computers, school computer supplies and computer software Arkansas: Aug. 1 – 2. Electronic devices commonly used by a student in the course of study.  Florida: July 20 – Aug. 20. Computer and related accessories (up to $1,500) Massachusetts: Aug. 8 – 9. Any retail product (less than $2,500) Missouri: Aug. 7 – 9. Personal computers and related accessories ($1,500 or less), software (less than $350) New Mexico: July 31 – Aug. 2. Desktop, tablet, laptop, notebook computers (up to $1,000), computer-related accessories ($500 or less per item) South Carolina: Aug. 7 – 9. Electronics Tennessee: July 31 – Aug. 2. Computers ($1,500 or less) West Virginia: July 31 – Aug. 3. Laptops and tablets ($500 or less) Is Apple offering a sales tax holida