Sales tax holiday covers disaster prep items

One of Texas’ sales tax holidays is coming up, just in time for potential severe weather in spring. Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said Texans can purchase certain emergency preparation supplies tax free from April 28-30. “The severe weather we had last year – particularly Hurricane Harvey – was a stark reminder that Texans should be prepared for emergencies at all times,” Hegar said. “This tax holiday allows people to save money while ensuring they have the supplies they need before an emergency situation occurs.” There’s 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. Supplies that qualify • batteries, fuel containers and flashlights priced at less than $75 • hurricane shutters and emergency ladders priced at less than $300; and portable generators priced at less than $3,000 Purchases that do not qualify include: • batteries for automobiles, boats and other motorized vehicles • camping stoves and camping supplies • chainsaws • plywood • extension ladders and stepladders • tents A list of emergency preparation supplies that may be purchased tax free can be found on the Comptroller’s website. The Comptroller’s office estimates shoppers will save more than $1.5 million in state and local sales taxes during the tax holiday, approved by lawmakers during the 2015 Texas Legislature.