Editor’s Note: This blog is updated annually in July to reflect the dates for the current year’s tax-free holiday weekends. We also provide additional tips for shopping and saving money.
In This Article, You Will Discover:
- The dates for tax-free shopping in your state.
- 5 tips for saving on back-to-school supplies.
- The importance of planning before shopping.
It’s that time of year – Back to School – and that means shopping for school supplies.
Many states have designated days for tax-free shopping, and each has its specific criteria for shopping. Typically, you can get clothes, supplies, backpacks, crayons, pencils, pens, erasers, lunch boxes, paper, notebooks, and sometimes computers – and pay no sales tax!
Be sure to take advantage of saving some money on clothing and school supplies.
Tax-free shopping
Here are the 2025 tax-free weekends for your state:
- Alabama – July 18-20
- Arkansas – August 2-3
- Georgia – No tax holiday
- Illinois – No tax holiday
- Indiana – No tax holiday
- Iowa – August 1-2
- Kentucky – No tax holiday
- Mississippi – July 11-13
- Missouri – August 1-3
- Oklahoma – August 1-3
- Tennessee – July 25-27
- Texas – August 8-10
5 tips for saving on back-to-school supplies
Don’t break the bank and shop smart with these tips on how you can make the most out of the tax-free holiday:
- Shop at home first
Check your drawers and closets and gather all your kids’ school items (backpacks, supplies, notebooks, etc) and clothes. Put them on a table and inventory what you need for this school year. Repurpose items in good condition.
- Make a list – and stick to it
Before heading to the store, list everything you need and where you will buy it. You’ll save time and money! And only buy what you need! Prioritize essentials and set a budget.
- Look for coupons and deals
Go online to see if your stores have deals and coupons – clip away! Check the local newspaper for additional deals and shopping hours. Check apps and websites like RetailMeNot or Honey for back-to-school promo codes.
- Buy generic
Save a few more pennies by buying generic items instead of name brands. These are often 20-50 percent cheaper than name brands. Additionally, store brands can help you save money.
- Compare prices
Get the best deal for everything you buy by carefully comparing the prices. Research online before you head to the store so you’ll know prices. Use price-comparison tools like Google Shopping or PriceGrabber.
Other suggestions include buying in bulk with other parents. Team up with friends and neighbors to buy bulk items, such as paper and pens. Additionally, consider shopping secondhand at thrift and consignment stores.
By following these tips, you can save money and make it go further. And you’ll be more apt to stick to your budget. Finally, if possible, go on the first day of the tax-free weekend so the store will be well-stocked with a wide selection of items.
So, plan ahead and happy shopping. Here’s to a great school year for all the kids – and parents!
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