Before you shop this Memorial Day weekend, check this list of everything from massive AC units to tiny light bulbs you can buy completely tax-free.
DALLAS — As Texans prepare for the summer heat, a statewide sales tax holiday is offering a chance to save money on energy-efficient home upgrades.
From Saturday, May 23, through Monday, May 25, shoppers can purchase certain ENERGY STAR-certified products tax-free. According to the Texas Comptroller’s office, shoppers are estimated to save approximately $15.7 million in state and local sales taxes during the three-day event.
“Texans know the value of a dollar, and every opportunity to keep more money in the hands of families and businesses matters,” said Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock. “These sales tax holidays help Texans make practical purchases that can lower costs, conserve resources and stretch household budgets a little further.”
What is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is a government-backed symbol for energy efficiency. Products earning the ENERGY STAR label are independently certified to meet strict energy efficiency specifications to use less energy and help protect the environment. According to ENERGY STAR, those who switch to certified appliances can decrease electric bills by as much as 30% while cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions.
What Qualifies for the Tax Holiday?
There is no limit on the number of qualifying items you can buy. You can purchase, rent, or lease the following ENERGY STAR-labeled items tax-free:
- Air conditioners (priced at $6,000 or less)
- Refrigerators (priced at $2,000 or less)
- Ceiling fans
- Incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs
- Clothes washers
- Dishwashers
- Dehumidifiers
What Items Are Not Included?
It is important to note that not all appliances with an ENERGY STAR label qualify for the exemption. Examples of items that remain taxable include:
- Water heaters
- Clothes dryers
- Freezers
- Stoves
- Attic fans
- Heat pumps
- Wine refrigerators and beverage chillers
The tax holiday applies to purchases made in-store, online, or by telephone. For a remote purchase to qualify, the item must be paid for during the holiday period, even if delivery occurs after May 25.
Visit the Texas Comptroller’s website for more details about the ENERGY STAR Sales Tax Holiday.