Clothing

• Clothing purchases are one of the more prominent sales activities that qualifies for tax-free weekends. While each state maintains a list of what types of clothing are exempt from its standard sales tax, the majority of clothing items that qualify are priced below $100. The price limit applies to the individual cost of each item. For example, if an individual purchases a shirt for $50 and a pair of jeans for $75, both items would qualify for the tax exemption.
  
  

School Supplies

• Another popular purchase that qualifies for most tax-free weekends is school supplies. These items may include notebooks, calculators, pens and folders. A price limit is typically imposed on these purchases. Items that are priced below a particular dollar amount qualify for the temporary sales tax exemption. Some states maintain a list of the school supplies that qualify for the tax-free weekend. Refer to the list, as some supplies, such as computer disks, may not be covered under the exemption.
  
  

Computers

• Many states exempt computer purchases during a tax-free weekend. The computer purchase typically has to include an entire computer system. Components, such as monitors or printers, that are purchased separately do not usually qualify for an exemption. To qualify, the dollar value needs to fall below a certain limit, and the computer should be used for personal or educational purposes. Handheld computing devices, such as personal digital assistants, are usually not exempt from sales tax.
  
  

Appliances

• Some states allow residents to purchase energy-efficient products and appliances without sales tax during tax-free weekends. These products typically include home appliances, such as dishwashers, refrigerators and air conditioners. Light bulbs and digital thermostats might also qualify as long as they carry an Energy Star logo. The logo certifies that the product consumes less energy than competing products in the same category. Some states exempt items purchased in preparation for natural disasters, such as hurricanes. A prime example of this would be the purchase of a generator for noncommercial use.