Alabama families can save money on school supplies, clothing and computers during the state’s annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.

The 2026 tax-free weekend begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 17, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 19.

During the weekend, shoppers will not pay state sales tax on eligible clothing, computers, books and school supplies.

Gov. Kay Ivey encouraged families to take advantage of the savings as students prepare to return to school.

“Quality education is essential to continuing the historic momentum that Alabama is experiencing,” Ivey said. “Successful students need to be properly equipped for the classroom, and this tax-free weekend makes school supplies more accessible to families across our state.”

The price limits for tax-free items increased this year following changes approved by Alabama lawmakers in 2025.

Clothing priced at $156 or less per item can qualify. That includes school uniforms, shirts, pants, jeans, dresses, jackets, shoes and socks.

Computers, software and school computer supplies costing $1,173 or less in a single purchase may also qualify.

School supplies, art supplies and instructional materials must cost $78 or less per item. Eligible items include book bags, binders, calculators, crayons, folders, glue, notebooks, paper, pencils, pens, rulers and scissors.

Books priced at $47 or less also qualify if they have an ISBN. Magazines, newspapers and periodicals are not included.

Alabama Department of Revenue Commissioner Mary Martin Mitchell also encouraged families to participate.

“We’re excited for this tax-free opportunity allowing Alabama families to save their hard-earned money while helping students get what they need for school,” Mitchell said.

While the state sales tax is removed from qualifying purchases, local sales taxes may still apply. Cities and counties can choose whether to participate in the tax-free weekend.

Shoppers are encouraged to check with the Alabama Department of Revenue to see if their city or county is participating.

Retailers are required to participate in the state sales tax holiday and cannot charge state sales tax on items that qualify for the exemption.