Did You Know This Weekend Is A Tax Holiday in Texas?

Tornado season is upon us, and the State of Texas is offering a tax-free holiday this weekend to help you stock up on the supplies you'll need if a severe storm rocks your area.

The 2019 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday runs from Saturday, April 27 to Monday, April 29.

According to a news release from the Texas Comptroller's Office, "There is no limit on the number of qualifying items you can purchase, and you do not need to issue an exemption certificate to claim the exemption."

There is a caveat, though.

"Delivery, shipping, handling and transportation charges are part of the sales price," the release reads. "If the emergency preparation supply being purchased is taxable, the delivery charge is also taxable. Consider these charges when determining whether an emergency preparation supply can be purchased tax free during the holiday."

"For example, you purchase a rescue ladder for $299 with a $10 delivery charge, for a total sales price of $309. Because the total sales price of the ladder is more than $300, tax is due on the $309 sales price."

So, which items qualify?

Less than $3000

Portable generators

Less than $300

Emergency ladders
Hurricane shutters

Less than $75

Axes
Batteries, single or multipack (AAA cell, AA cell, C cell, D cell, 6 volt or 9 volt)
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 battery operated) - Examples of items include: candles, flashlights and lanterns
Mobile telephone batteries and mobile telephone chargers
Radios - portable self-powered (including battery operated) - includes two-way and weather band radios
Smoke detectors
Tarps and other plastic sheeting

The items below ARE NOT exempt: