Emergency supplies to be tax free in Texas April 27-29

By Spectrum News Staff Texas

UPDATED 11:30 AM CT Apr. 20, 2024 PUBLISHED 11:02 AM CT Apr. 18, 2024 PUBLISHED 11:02 AM CDT Apr. 18, 2024

TEXAS — Summer is right around the corner, and with it comes hurricane season and wildfire season. Texas has already seen its worst wildfire in history in 2024.

To help you prepare, the state will allow you to purchase select emergency items without sales tax for two days. 2024 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 27 and ends at midnight on April 29.

Purchases will not require an exemption certificate and there is no limit to the number of qualifying items you can purchase.

According to the state, the following items qualify for tax exemption if purchased for a sales price:

Less than $300

Portable generators
Emergency ladders
Hurricane shutters

Less than $75

Axes
Batteries, single or multipack
Can openers—nonelectric
Carbon monoxide detectors
Coolers and ice chests for food storage—nonelectric
Fire extinguishers
First aid kits
Fuel containers
Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
Hatchets
Ice products—reusable and artificial
Light sources—portable self-powered, including candles, flashlights and lanterns
Mobile phone batteries and chargers
Radios—portable self-powered, including two-way and weather band
Some detectors
Tarps and other plastic sheeting

The following items do not qualify:

Medical masks and face masks
Cleaning supplies
Gloves
Toilet paper
Batteries for automobiles, boat and other motorized vehicles
Camping stoves
Camping supplies
Chainsaws
Plywood
Extension ladders
Stepladders
Tents
Repair or replacement parts for emergency preparation supplies
Services performed on, or related to, emergency preparation supplies

You may purchase items in stories, online or by mail as long as the purchase occurs within the specified period.

The state specified that delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges are part of the sales price. So, for example, if you purchase a rescue ladder for $299 and it includes a $10 delivery charge for a total cost of $309, that will exceed the $300 tax-free limit.