Mark your calendars: SC’s Sales Tax Free Weekend is returning this weekend. Held for 72 hours each August, Tax Free Weekend helps students (and parents) save on the back-to-school essentials ahead of the new year.

We’ve got all the details to make shopping an A+ experience this weekend.

When is it?

This year’s Sales Tax Holiday is Fri., Aug. 5 through Sun., Aug. 7.

Throughout the weekend, many school supplies + other items are exempt from the state’s 6% Sales Tax (and applicable local taxes) whether they are purchased in-store or online. Just be sure that the online purchase falls under the eligibility requirements for tax-exempt items.

So, what’s exempt?

Clothing, accessories, footwear, school supplies — including computers, software, and printers — and certain bed + bath supplies are examples of tax-exempt items. View the full list.

School supplies are those that are used at home or in the classroom for assignments, such as pens + pencils, backpacks, calculators, and notebooks.

Local shopping suggestions

🛍 Clothing: Two Cumberland and M. Dumas and Sons

🛍️ Accessories: Brackish, The Tiny Tassel, and Half-Moon Outfitters

🛍️ Footwear: Shoes on King, Charleston Shoe Co., and Phillips Shoes

And what’s NOT exempt?

Cell phones, cosmetics, furniture, jewelry, wallets, watches + items put on layaway are examples of items that won’t be tax-free this weekend. This revenue ruling lists other non-exempt items.

Heads up, college students: Items like refrigerators and toiletries are not exempt. Neither are those items purchased for office or business use.

Can anyone take advantage of these deals?

While parents + students often find great back-to-school deals, anyone can buy items that qualify and save.

In case we missed anything, check out these frequently asked questions. Happy shopping, Holy City.