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At H2O Wireless, we're all about helping you save money. And a sales tax holiday can save you a good chunk of money — if you know when it is and how it works.

Save Money During These Months!

In 2024, July and August are opportunities to save money in many states, especially if you're looking for back-to-school deals. H2O Wireless has a complete list of this back-to-school season's tax-free weekends including dates, items eligible for purchase (including school supplies, clothing and footwear, computer supplies and more!), and the maximum amount allowed. Get all the details here and make your shopping list now!

Tax-Free Weekends by State

Alabama, July 19-21, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing / $100, Computers / $750, School supplies / $50, Books / $30

Arkansas, Aug. 3-4, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing and footwear / Less than $100, School supplies / No maximum

Florida, July 29-Aug. 11, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: School supplies / $50, Clothing, footwear and accessories / $100, Computers and accessories / $1,500, Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles / $30

Iowa, Aug. 2-3, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing and footwear / Less than $100

Louisiana, Sept. 6-8, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Firearms, ammunition and hunting supplies / No maximum

Maryland, Aug. 11-17, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing and footwear / $100, Backpacks / First $40

Massachusetts, Aug. 10-11, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: All retail items for personal use / $2,500 (except vehicles, food, alcohol, gas, certain utilities, tobacco, marijuana)

Mississippi, July 12-14, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing and footwear / Less than $100, Select school supplies / Less than $100

Nevada, Oct. 25-27, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Purchases by National Guard members / No maximum

New Jersey, Aug. 24-Sept. 7, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: School and art supplies / No maximum, Instruction materials / No maximum, Computers / $2,999.99

New Mexico, Aug. 2-4, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing / Less than $100, Computers / $1,000, Computer equipment / $500, School supplies / Less than $30

Ohio, Aug. 2-4, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing / $75, School supplies / $20

Oklahoma, Aug. 2-4, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing / $99.99

South Carolina, Aug. 2-4, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Items include computers, school supplies and clothing / No maximum

Tennessee, July 26-28, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing / $100

Texas, Aug. 9-11, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing, backpacks and school supplies /$99.99

Virginia, Aug. 2-4, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing / $100, School supplies / $20

West Virginia, Aug. 2-5, Eligible Items/Maximum Cost Per Item: Clothing / $125, School supplies / $50, School instruction materials / $20, Sports equipment / $150, Computer or tablet / $500

Understanding Tax-Free Weekends

Sales tax holidays are typically scheduled by states at various times throughout the year, often in late summer or early fall. During these periods, specific items such as clothing, school supplies, computers, and even energy-efficient appliances are exempt from state sales tax. Each state sets its own guidelines regarding which items qualify and the maximum value per item to remain tax-free.

Key Benefits

1. Savings:

The primary allure of tax-free weekends is the savings they offer. Depending on your state's tax rate, this can mean significant discounts on eligible purchases.

 2. Budget Stretching:

Families preparing for the school year can stretch their budgets further by purchasing items like clothing, school art supplies, and certain computer related items tax-free.

3. Big-Ticket Items:

It’s not just about school supplies—some states also include larger purchases like computers and even hurricane preparedness items, making it a great time to invest in these essentials.

Tips for Maximizing Your Savings

1. Plan Ahead:

Check your state’s department of revenue website or local news for dates and eligible items. Mark your calendar and create a shopping list.

2. Research Eligibility:

Understand which items qualify for the tax exemption. Often, there are limits per item (e.g., clothing items must be under a certain price threshold to qualify).

3. Compare Prices:

While the allure of tax savings is strong, don't forget to compare prices. Some retailers may offer special promotions or discounts that could offset the savings from the tax exemption.

4. Shop Strategically:

Given the popularity of tax-free weekends, stores can get crowded. Consider shopping early in the day or online to avoid the rush.

5. Know the Rules:

Each state has its own rules and limitations, so familiarize yourself with these to ensure you get the maximum benefit.

Beyond Back-to-School

While tax-free weekends are heavily associated with back-to-school shopping, they can also benefit anyone looking to make purchases in the specified categories. Whether you’re a homeowner needing to update appliances or a tech enthusiast eyeing a new laptop, these weekends provide a valuable opportunity to save.

From all of us at H2O Wireless, best wishes for a safe and wonderful back-to-school season. And for a school supply you can share with your kids (and spouse!), check out our crazy affordable multiline promotion here!