Texas and Maryland Both Have Tax Free Shopping Soon

It's back-to-school season! Soon, Texas and Maryland will launch their sales tax holidays, giving shoppers an opportunity to save on essentials before the new school year.

When Are Texas' and Maryland's Sales Tax Holidays for 2017?

Texas' holiday runs from August 11 through August 13. The Maryland sales tax holiday lasts longer, beginning August 13 and ending August 19. Additionally, Maryland has a tax free weekend for Energy Star-branded products in February — so if you're in the market for major appliance purchases, be aware of that.

SEE ALSO: When Is Your State's Tax Free Weekend in 2017?

Who Can Shop?

All retailers in Texas and Maryland are participating in the tax free holiday. This includes online retailers; Texas and Maryland shoppers should owe no sales tax on online purchases. Anyone in either state can take advantage of the holiday deals — not just back-to-school shoppers.

What's Covered?

Maryland is exempting clothing and shoes that retail for $100 or less per item from tax, as well as the first $40 of any backpack purchase. Texas is running a similar program, exempting clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks, all of which must cost less than $100 per item.

Like many other states with tax free days, both Texas and Maryland are excluding athletic and protective gear (think football pads or golf cleats), as well as clothing accessories (jewelry, wallets, and handbags, to name a few).

Maryland shoppers may use in-store sales or coupons to bring items below the price cutoffs, but may not use manufacturer coupons or mail-in rebates.

Where Can You Learn More?

For more information about Texas' sales tax holiday, see the Texas Comptroller's website. For more details about Maryland's program, check out that state comptroller's website.

DealNews is keeping track of all the state sales tax holidays. You can see our complete list here.

Readers, do you have sales tax holiday plans? What do you think about your state's tax holiday (or lack thereof)? Share your opinions in the comments below.