Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — Alabama families have a prime opportunity to save on essential supplies during the state's 21st annual back-to-school sales tax holiday. This three-day event allows shoppers to purchase qualified items free of the state's 4% sales tax, and many cities and counties across the state are also waiving their local sales taxes, offering further potential for savings.

The tax-free weekend is scheduled to run from 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, through midnight on Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Shoppers can take advantage of tax exemptions on four primary categories of items, provided they fall within the newly increased price thresholds:

• Clothing: Articles of clothing priced at $156 or less per item are eligible. This category includes general wearing apparel such as shirts, pants, shoes, socks, coats, and school uniforms.
• Computers and Software: A single computer purchase (including a laptop, desktop, or tower system with peripherals) qualifies if the price is $1,173 or less. This also covers computer software and essential school computer supplies.
• School Supplies: Items commonly used by students—such as notebooks, binders, pens, pencils, calculators, and book bags—are eligible if priced at $78 or less per item.
• Textbooks: Required textbooks listed on an official school book list are exempt if priced at $47 or less per book.

Families should review the official list of exempt items provided by the Alabama Department of Revenue to ensure their planned purchases meet the criteria.