Back-to-school shopping can get pricey fast—but Alabama families, we’ve got good news! From Friday, July 18 through Sunday, July 20, 2025, you can shop tax-free on everything from pencils and backpacks to laptops and sneakers during Alabama’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday. That means more of your hard-earned money goes straight to the stuff your kids need—and a little less to the state.
Whether you’re stocking up for your little learner’s first day of kindergarten or prepping your college kid for dorm life, this weekend is packed with savings (and opportunities for smart planning).
What Can You Buy Tax-Free?
Get ready to fill those carts! The following items will be sales-tax-free all weekend long (as long as they fall under the price limits):
- Clothing – Items under $100 each
- School supplies – Like notebooks, binders, crayons, and glue sticks ($50 or less per item)
- Computers & software – Up to $750 (great for students headed to high school or college!)
- Books – Any single book priced $30 or less
Important Note: Both state and many local taxes will be waived—but check if your city/county is participating (most in the River Region do!).
Who Can Take Advantage?
This weekend isn’t just for parents buying backpacks (though it’s GREAT for that). Here’s who else can score big:
- K–12 Parents: Save on everything from school uniforms to scissors, and maybe throw in a few bonus treats for that first-day excitement.
- College Students (and their awesome parents): Grab tax-free dorm essentials—especially laptops and accessories!
- Homeschooling Families & Teachers: Restock learning tools, art supplies, and educational games—without paying sales tax.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: Even if you don’t have school-aged kids, you can still take advantage of the tax holiday to snag basics like socks, jeans, or a new laptop.
Smart Tips for Tax-Free Weekend Success
Make a game plan – Write a list of what your kids actually need for school so you stay focused (and avoid 12 duplicate glue sticks).
Go early – Crowds get bigger as the weekend goes on. Beat the rush and score the best stuff early Friday or Saturday morning.
Watch the price tags – If something’s over the limit, you’ll still pay tax on it.
Shop local – Support your favorite stores in Montgomery, Wetumpka, and Prattville while you save.
Online counts too! – Ordering from your couch? If it ships during the tax-free weekend, you still get the savings!
Bonus Tip: Prep for More Than School!
Did you know Alabama also offers a Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday in February? It’s the perfect time to grab tax-free emergency supplies like batteries, flashlights, and coolers—ideal for storm season prep. Two chances each year to save? Yes, please!
Mark Your Calendar and Let the Countdown Begin!
The 2025 Alabama Tax-Free Weekend is your chance to save on everything your family needs for a successful school year. So set a reminder for July 18–20, gather your supply lists, and get ready to shop smart while keeping a little more money in your wallet (and maybe picking up a donut or two with the savings).
Don’t forget: Some items go fast, so shop early and make it a fun day out for the whole family!