Guns, Appliances, and Storm Supplies: 2013 Sales Tax Holidays

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Some states offer sales tax exemptions for back-to-school supplies and clothing every summer, but that’s not the only type of sales tax holiday.

Throughout the year, some states exempt Energy Star appliances or WaterSense products, with the first of these sales tax holidays happening in Maryland this weekend. In time for hurricane season, some coastal states exempt emergency supplies like batteries and self-powered flashlights and portable radios. A couple of states even exempt hunting supplies, including firearms.

If you live in one of the states below, mark the dates on your calendar and check the relevant website to learn exactly which items qualify for a sales tax exemption.

State Date Exemption Details
Alabama Feb. 22 – 24 Severe-weather preparedness supplies Website
Georgia* TBD Energy Star and WaterSense products Website
Louisiana May 25 – 26 Hurricane preparedness supplies Website
Louisiana Sept. 6 – 8 Firearms, ammunition, and hunting supplies Website
Maryland Feb. 16 – 18 Energy Star products Website
Missouri April 19 – 25 Energy Star products Website
North Carolina Nov. 1 – 3 Energy Star products Website
South Carolina** TBD Energy Star and WaterSense products Website
South Carolina Nov. 29 – 30 Handguns, rifles, and shotguns Website
Texas May 25 – 27 Energy Star products Website
Virginia May 25 – 31 Hurricane and emergency preparedness equipment Website
Virginia Oct. 11 – 14 Energy Star and WaterSense products Website

*Georgia offered this exemption in October last year but has yet to announce 2013 dates, so check their website when October nears.

**South Carolina just reinstated its sales tax holiday for energy-efficient products last year (October) and has yet to announce 2013 dates.

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