Back-to-school shopping is about to get a little more affordable. South Carolina’s annual Tax Free Weekend returns Friday, August 7 through Sunday, August 9, 2026, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase a wide variety of school essentials without paying state or local sales tax.
Whether you’re preparing your children for a new school year, sending a student off to college, or simply replacing everyday essentials, this weekend is one of the best times of the year to save. According to the South Carolina Department of Revenue, the tax holiday applies statewide and includes both state and local sales taxes.
When Is South Carolina’s Tax Free Weekend?
The 2026 South Carolina Tax Free Weekend begins Friday, August 7, and runs through Sunday, August 9. During these three days, qualifying purchases are exempt from South Carolina’s 6% sales tax, as well as applicable local sales taxes, making it an ideal time to stock up before the school year begins.
What Items Are Tax Free?
South Carolina offers one of the broadest tax-free weekends in the country. Eligible items include:
- Clothing, shoes, and accessories
- School supplies, including backpacks, notebooks, pens, and calculators
- Computers, laptops, printers, and qualifying computer accessories
- Certain bed and bath items, including sheets, comforters, pillows, towels, and shower curtains
- Diapers and other qualifying essentials
Unlike many other states, South Carolina does not impose a price limit on qualifying items, allowing shoppers to save on everything from everyday clothing to higher-priced electronics.
Tips for Making the Most of Tax Free Weekend
Planning ahead can help maximize your savings. Create a shopping list before the weekend, compare prices online, and remember that eligible purchases made through online retailers also qualify during the tax-free period. Since many retailers offer additional back-to-school sales, shoppers may be able to combine store discounts with the tax exemption.
A Great Time to Shop in Charleston
For families throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry, Tax Free Weekend is the perfect opportunity to prepare for the upcoming school year while supporting local businesses and shopping centers. Whether you’re purchasing supplies for a new student or outfitting a college dorm, taking advantage of South Carolina’s Tax Free Weekend can lead to significant savings before classes begin.