COLUMBIA – South Carolina’s annual sales tax-free weekend is set for Friday, Aug. 2 through Sunday, Aug. 4.
What’s tax free? A variety of back-to-school essentials are exempt from the state’s 6 per cent sales tax and any applicable local taxes. Three other categories are also included: clothing (including diapers), accessories and shoes; computers and bed and bath items.
Not everything is included, however. For instance, computer keyboards are only exempt if they are included in a computer package. Listed here are some common exemptions. For a complete list of tax-free items, go to https://dor.sc.gov/taxfreeweekend.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
- Art supplies
- Binders and folders
- Books
- Book bags
- Calculators
- Daily planners and organizers
- Glue, tape, staplers, staples
- Highlighters and markers
- Lunch boxes
- Musical instruments
- Notebooks, paper
- Pencils, sharpeners, erasers
- Pens
- School uniforms
- Scissors
- Sport uniforms
COMPUTERS
- Computers
- Computer parts and accessories (i.e. monitors, keyboards, and scanners) when sold as a package with a computer
- Computer software and service contracts (sold in conjunction with software)
- Printer supplies, including replaceable ink cartridges
BED AND BATH
- Bath mats and rugs
- Bed duvets and covers
- Bed skirts and dust ruffles
- Bed sheets and sheet sets
- Bed spreads and comforters
- Blankets and throws
- Mattress pads and toppers
- Pillow cases and shams
- Pillows (all types)
- Shower curtains and liners
- Towels (all types and sizes)
- Washcloths
CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR
- Accessories
- Belts and suspenders
- Hair accessories
- Hats and caps
- Purses and handbags
- Neckties and bow ties
- Active wear
- Exercise clothing
- Athletic uniforms
- Leotards and tights
- Hunting and ski clothing
- Swimwear
- Everyday Dresses and skirts
- Leggings, Pants, jeans, and shorts
- Shirts and blouses
- Sleepwear
- Socks and underwear
- Suits and blazers
- Sweaters and sweatshirts
- Footwear – All shoes, including: Cleats, Dance shoes, Rain boots, Orthopedic shoes, Skates, Slippers
- Outerwear: Coats (all types), Earmuffs, Gloves and mittens, Rainwear (raincoats, umbrellas, etc.), Scarves, Vests
- Specialty Items: Aprons, Bibs, Bridal gowns and veils, Costumes, Diapers, Formal wear (gowns, tuxedos, etc.), Graduation caps and gowns, School uniforms, Scout uniform