Tennessee Tax-Free Weekend 2026 Returns For More Savings
The Tennessee back-to-school sales tax holiday helps you save on computers, tablets, clothing, and more.
Did you know that Tennessee's sales tax is one of the highest in the nation? Well, that changes for one weekend in July, but only on select items.
Tennessee's 21st annual back-to-school tax holiday makes certain clothing items, school supplies, and computers exempt from sales tax, which is particularly impactful since this state also has no income tax.
Let’s dive deep into what items are included in the Tennessee back-to-school sale.
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When does tax-free weekend start in Tennessee?
The back-to-school holiday is currently the only tax-free holiday that Tennessee holds. It begins at 12:01 AM on Friday, July 31, and ends at 11:59 PM on Sunday, August 2.
For 2026, Tennessee shoppers can save about 9.75% in sales tax on eligible purchases during the tax-free holiday; nearly $10 for every $100 spent. That can add up if shoppers purchase equipment like computers or tablets, or purchase many items for multiple children.
What's included in 'TN' tax free weekend?
There are specific rules for Tennessee’s tax-free weekend. Each article of clothing purchased must cost $100 or less. Individual school supplies must not exceed $100, either.
Computers and tablets exceeding $1,500 do not qualify for the tax holiday, nor can you purchase any item tax-free "for business or trade."
However, here are a few items you can purchase tax-free in Tennessee during the sales tax holiday:
- Baby supplies (diapers, clothing, receiving blankets)
- Backpacks, lunch boxes, and folders
- Calculators and computers
- Shirts, pants, skirts, and shorts
- Pens, pencils, notebooks, and binders
- Socks, undergarments, and pajamas
- Shoes (sneakers, boots, slippers, running shoes)
What isn't included in Tennessee’s sales tax holiday?
While many items are eligible for the Tennessee tax-free holiday, many items are ineligible.
Below are a few other items you are taxed on in Tennessee during the sales tax holiday:
- Computer software and flash drives
- Printers, printer ink, and printer paper
- Goggles (safety and sports)
- Accessories (including sunglasses, wallets, and jewelry)
- Wetsuits and cleated or spiked footwear
Tennessee tax-free weekend applies to online purchases
Purchases made online at retailers like Amazon or Office Depot may qualify for Tennessee’s back-to-school holiday. To qualify, purchases must be ordered and paid for during the sales tax holiday.
Orders placed before or after the weekend will still be taxable. Additionally, orders must be delivered to a Tennessee address to qualify. These rules also apply to orders made via telephone, mail, and email.
For more information on the Tennessee tax-free holiday, visit the state’s website.
Note: Food and Food Ingredients. Food items are not included in the 2026 sales tax holiday. So if you were looking to save on groceries, you may have to stick with coupons and loyalty programs for now.
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