Emergency Preparedness Supplies Tax Free Through the Weekend

SAN ANGELO, TX-- With spring in full bloom, that means catastrophic weather is lurking around every corner throughout the state.

Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar wants every Texan to be prepared this season by making April 28-30 a Sales Tax Holiday for emergency supplies.

“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 in a statement. “This tax holiday allows people to save money while ensuring they have the supplies they need before an emergency situation occurs.”

However, the Texas Comptroller wants to inform everyone what does and doesn't qualify for tax exemptions this coming weekend.

These emergency preparation supplies qualify for tax exemption if purchased for a sales price:

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

These supplies do not qualify for tax exemption:

• Batteries for automobiles, boats 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

The Comptroller says that factors like shipping and handling can affect the exemption status of items purchased.

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

For more information, contact their Tax Help, or call 1-800-252-5555.