Prepare for potential natural disasters during the 2024 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday from April 27 to 29. In 2015, the 84th Texas Legislature introduced Texas’ annual Emergency Supplies Sales Tax Holiday Weekend, allowing Texans to purchase certain emergency preparation items tax-free, whether online or in person. This tax-free period allows you to obtain crucial supplies without extra expenses, assisting in readiness for events like hurricanes and flash floods. Eligible items include portable generators priced under $3000, emergency ladders, and hurricane shutters under $300, as well as first aid kits, batteries, and other essentials under $75. Specific over-the-counter self-care items, such as antibacterial hand sanitizer, soap, spray, and wipes, are exempt from sales tax when they have a “Drug Facts” panel in compliance with FDA regulations. Note that certain items, like medical masks and cleaning supplies, are not eligible for tax exemption.

Throughout the Sales Tax Holiday, you can buy qualifying emergency preparation supplies through various channels, including in-store, online, via telephone, mail, custom order, or any other method. The purchase of items must take place within the designated period and meet the pricing guidelines. Keep in mind that delivery, shipping, handling, and transportation charges contribute to the sales price, so factor them in when deciding if an item qualifies for tax-free purchase. You’re free to purchase as many qualifying items as you need, and there’s no need to provide an exemption certificate to avail the exemption.

With the start of hurricane season beginning on June 1st, Texans are advised to explore disaster readiness suggestions and guidance for creating an emergency supply kit at TexasReady.gov.

Find the full list of items that qualify for the exemption and more details here.