South Carolina’s Tax-Free Weekend: A Smart Way to Save for Back-to-School Shopping

South Carolina families will soon have the opportunity to stock up on back-to-school essentials while saving money during the state’s annual Tax-Free Weekend, scheduled for Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3, 2025. This popular event provides three full days for shoppers to purchase a wide range of school-related items without paying the 6% state sales tax or applicable local taxes.

What’s Included in the Tax-Free Weekend

During the Tax-Free Weekend, a variety of items commonly needed for the new school year will be exempt from sales tax. This includes clothing, footwear, school supplies, and technology—whether purchased in-store or online. In addition, certain bed and bath items will also qualify for the exemption.

Clothing and footwear purchases such as uniforms, athletic apparel, shoes, and accessories are included, with no restrictions on whether the items are new or used. School supplies ranging from notebooks and binders to calculators, backpacks, and musical instruments will also be tax-free. For families investing in technology for the school year, computers, printers, and essential accessories qualify when purchased for school use. Items like bedspreads, towels, and shower curtains round out the list of eligible purchases.

It’s important to note that some items do not qualify. Purchases like cell phones, cosmetics, jewelry, furniture, and business-related items are excluded from the tax-free list.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Shopping

To take full advantage of Tax-Free Weekend, shoppers should plan ahead. Start by creating a detailed list of needed supplies, clothing, and technology to avoid unnecessary purchases. Review your child’s school supply lists and consider future needs throughout the school year, not just what’s required on the first day.

Both in-store and online purchases qualify, provided they are completed within the tax-free window and shipped to a South Carolina address. Be aware that layaway purchases or rainchecks are not eligible for the exemption.

If you’re shopping for technology, remember that accessories such as monitors or printers must be purchased together with the computer or intended specifically for school assignments to qualify.

Benefits Beyond the Checkout

Tax-Free Weekend isn’t just about saving a few dollars at the register. Last year, South Carolina shoppers saved more than $1.3 million in sales tax during the weekend, with more than $22.3 million in qualifying purchases. With school costs continuing to rise, these savings offer real relief to families preparing for a new academic year.

Educators can also benefit beyond this weekend by taking advantage of the Classroom Teachers Expenses Credit—a state provision for K-12 teachers who purchase their own classroom supplies.

A Tradition That Supports Families and Communities

Now in its 25th year, South Carolina’s Tax-Free Weekend is a well-established tradition that brings families into stores, supports local retailers, and provides meaningful savings during a season of heavy spending. Many officers, schools, and community organizations encourage families to make the most of this opportunity by preparing early and shopping wisely.

Mark Your Calendar

The 2025 Tax-Free Weekend runs from 12:01 a.m. on Friday, August 1 through midnight on Sunday, August 3. Whether shopping for school supplies, outfitting your children in new clothes, or updating their tech for the classroom, this is a smart time to stretch your dollars further.

For a detailed list of eligible items and frequently asked questions, visit the South Carolina Department of Revenue’s website at dor.sc.gov.