Certain emergency preparation supplies tax free April 28-30

If you need to stock up on supplies for your emergency preparedness kit, you can purchase certain items tax free this weekend.

The Texas comptroller announced April 28-30, 2018, as the 2018 Emergency Preparation Supplies Sales Tax Holiday. Certain emergency preparation supplies are tax free when purchased in Texas between 12:01 a.m.on Saturday, April 28, and midnight on Monday, April 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,” Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said in a release. “This tax holiday allows people to save money while ensuring they have the supplies they need before an emergency situation occurs.”

There are no limits on the number of qualifying items that can be purchased.

Qualifying items include:

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

Supplies that do not qualify include:

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

For additional information on the sales tax holiday, visit the Texas comptroller's website here.