SC shoppers can save money during state’s upcoming Tax Free Weekend

A logo of South Carolina's annual back-to-school tax-free weekend. (Provided by the S.C. Department of Revenue)

Computers and clothing, backpacks and bedding — South Carolinians can buy these items and other back-to-school necessities tax free the first weekend of August.

The state’s annual Tax Free Weekend is scheduled for Aug. 2-4, as per a state law passed in 2000. For the last quarter century, the 72 hours of savings start at 12:01 a.m. the first Friday in August and continue until midnight Sunday. Online sales of eligible items are included.

“As inflation continues to drain many wallets, this year’s Tax Free Weekend offers some relief for weary families,” said state Department of Revenue Director Hartley Powell. “Every shopper saves money during this tax holiday, particularly on back-to-school essentials.”​

Last year, shoppers purchased more than $30.4 million worth of merchandise online and in stores without having to pay South Carolina’s 6% sales tax or any local sales taxes, a savings of more than $1.8 million, according to the state Department of Revenue.

Items eligible for the tax break include computers, printers, headphones, school supplies, clothing,​ shoes, purses, diapers, headphones and certain bed and bath items. Not included are smartphones, cameras, jewelry, cosmetics, wallets, watches or furniture. A full list is available on the tax department’s website.

While the tax break applies to every shopper, the timing set in law was intended to help parents buy back-to-school items before classes started. However, school calendars have shifted. This year, classes start in just over half of South Carolina’s K-12 school districts (37) before the tax-free weekend, according to a composite of school calendars posted by the state education agency.

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