Publisher’s Note
We set out to create a comprehensive resource to help Texas shoppers make the most of Tax-Free Weekend, with a special focus on Del Rio. No matter where you live in Texas, we hope these guides help you save a few dollars, understand what qualifies for the tax exemption and avoid paying sales tax on eligible purchases.
While we’d love to take all the credit, we also want to give credit where it’s due. The Texas Comptroller’s Sales Tax Holiday website was an invaluable resource in preparing these articles. If you have a question we didn’t answer, we encourage you to visit the Comptroller’s website for the complete rules and official guidance. Feel free to civilly give us feedback in the Facebook comments and we’ll work to get it fixed this year, or do better next year.Â
Most of all, thank you for reading The 830 Times. We appreciate the opportunity to serve our community and hope this guide helps make your back-to-school shopping a little easier—and a little less expensive.
From staff reports
Texas Tax-Free Weekend is one of the best opportunities of the year for families to stretch their back-to-school budgets. With a little planning, shoppers can save even more than they expected.
Here are 10 ways to maximize your savings.
1. Make a Shopping List Before You Leave Home
Start with your child’s school supply list and check closets for clothing, shoes and backpacks that may need replacing.
Shopping with a list helps prevent impulse purchases and forgotten items.
2. Know the $100 Rule
Remember, each qualifying item must cost less than $100.
A $99 pair of shoes qualifies. A $100 pair does not.
If you’re considering a more expensive item, look for a similar option priced under the limit.
3. Shop Local First
Before heading out of town or ordering online, check local Del Rio retailers.
Shopping locally not only saves you money during Tax-Free Weekend, it also supports businesses that support the community throughout the year.
4. Compare Prices Before You Buy
Most major retailers publish their back-to-school sales online before the weekend begins.
Checking prices ahead of time can help you find the best deals without driving all over town.
5. Stack Sales With Tax-Free Savings
Tax-Free Weekend doesn’t replace store sales—it works alongside them.
Look for clearance items, buy-one-get-one offers and store promotions to increase your savings even more.
6. Shop Early
Popular school supplies, backpacks and children’s clothing can sell out quickly.
Shopping Friday or early Saturday usually provides the best selection.
7. Don’t Forget Online Shopping
Amazon, Walmart.com, Target.com and many other retailers participate in Texas Tax-Free Weekend.
Sometimes the best deals are online, especially if your local store is out of stock.
8. Save Your Receipts
Always keep your receipts.
If sales tax is charged on a qualifying item by mistake, you’ll need your receipt to request a refund from the retailer.
9. Watch for Non-Qualifying Items
Not everything marketed for back-to-school qualifies.
Items such as computers, tablets, jewelry, purses and many athletic cleats remain taxable.
Knowing the rules before you shop can prevent surprises at the checkout.
10. Buy for the Whole Family
Tax-Free Weekend isn’t limited to students.
Anyone can purchase qualifying clothing, shoes and other eligible items tax-free. If someone in your family needs socks, jeans, work clothes or a new jacket that qualifies under the rules, Tax-Free Weekend is a great time to buy.
Every Dollar Counts
Texas families can save up to 8.25% on qualifying purchases during Tax-Free Weekend.
While that may not seem like much on a single item, the savings can add up quickly when shopping for multiple children or purchasing an entire wardrobe of back-to-school essentials.
A little planning before you head to the store can help you make every dollar go a little further.
