EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Sun City shoppers can expect to see most shoes, clothing, school supplies, and office supplies tax-free starting Friday, Aug. 9.
Texan stores are set to provide a much-needed breather from state and local taxes from Aug. 9-11. The 25th annual tax-free weekend is a timely relief as students gear up for the new school year.
“I think the turnout will be busy for many businesses in El Paso and around the area. I think you’re going to see people wanting to save money, so it’s good for local businesses,” said Angel Vela, owner of Bell 2 Bell.
Vela’s shop, Bell 2 Bell, offers school supplies and products for educators. He said this time of year is great for his business as he and his staff have been preparing for the big weekend.
“We’re preparing by selecting items that qualify for tax-free weekend. People need to go out there and do their research and look at the list of what items qualify so that they’ll be ready when they do their shopping,” said Vela.
During the sales tax holiday, qualifying items are those less than $100 and fall under the exemption list found on the Texas Comptroller’s website.
Items that do not qualify are:
items sold for $100 or more
clothing subscription boxes
specially designed athletic activity or protective-use clothing or footwear
clothing or footwear rentals, alterations (including embroidery) and cleaning services
items used to make or repair clothing, such as fabric, thread, yarn, buttons, snaps, hooks and zippers
jewelry, handbags, purses, briefcases, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, watches and other accessories
computers
software
textbooks
framed backpacks
Luggage
Briefcases
athletic, duffle or gym bags
computer bags
purses
unspecified school supplies
While retailers across the state will be honoring the holiday, Vela encourages shoppers to support small businesses.
“I strongly urge El Paso and the surrounding community to shop locally. Support your local business as they’re working hard to prepare for a tax-free weekend,” said Vela.
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