Save Big with 2024 Tax-Free Weekends

As the cost of living continues to rise, savvy shoppers are always on the lookout for opportunities to save money. One of the best ways to do this is by taking advantage of tax-free weekends. These special events, known as sales tax holidays, allow you to purchase certain items without paying the usual state sales tax.

So, what exactly is a sales tax holiday? In simple terms, it’s a period during which many states temporarily suspend sales tax on specific categories of items. These tax-free periods often coincide with back-to-school shopping seasons, making them the perfect time to stock up on school supplies, clothing, electronics, and more. However, not all states participate, and the rules can vary widely. For example, in South Carolina, you can purchase items like computers, school supplies, clothing, shoes, diapers, and even certain bed and bath items tax-free, whether they’re new or used.

How Do Tax-Free Weekends Work?

Typically, these holidays are restricted by product type and price limits. For instance, while you may be able to buy a tax-exempt computer, there could be a cap on the total amount you can spend, such as $1,000. It’s also important to remember that while state sales tax may be waived, local taxes might still apply, depending on your location.

When is the 2024 tax-free weekend in my state?

Here’s an overview of the states offering sales tax holidays in 2024, along with the tax-exempt items, as provided by the Federation of Tax Administrators and each state’s department of revenue and taxation.

1. Florida

• July 29 – August 11, 2024

  • School Supplies: Up to $50

  • Clothing, Footwear, and Accessories: Up to $100

  • Computers and Accessories: Up to $1,500

  • Educational Tools and Puzzle Games: Up to $30

• September 1 – 7, 2024

  • Tools: Varying maximums depending on the item

2. Louisiana

• September 6 – 8, 2024

  • Firearms, Ammunition, and Hunting Supplies: No maximum limit

3. Nevada

• October 25 – 27, 2024

  • Purchases by National Guard Members or Qualifying Relatives: No maximum limit

4. New Mexico

• November 30, 2024

  • Small Business Saturday Tax-Free Holiday: Applies to specific purchases under $500.

5. Tennessee

• July 26 – 28, 2024

  • Clothing: Up to $100

  • School Supplies: Up to $100

  • Computers: Up to $1,500

6. Mississippi

• August 30 – September 1, 2024

  • Hunting Supplies: Includes archery equipment, firearm and archery cases, firearm and archery accessories, hearing protection, holsters, belts, and slings. No maximum limit specified.

That Being Said

Before you start shopping, make sure to visit your state’s taxation and revenue website to look for any special exceptions. For instance, in Florida, while most clothing items are included in the tax-free weekend, items like sports equipment and jewelry are not, meaning they will still be subject to sales tax. Furthermore, to save on travel check out this blog related to Expedia’s TAAP Rewards program