South Carolina Kicks Off Annual Tax Free Weekend: What Shoppers Need to Know

Save on clothing, school supplies, and computers through Sunday across state lines and online

By Coastal Carolina News Staff

August 7, 2026

SOUTH CAROLINA — The annual South Carolina Tax Free Weekend is officially underway, offering shoppers a chance to save on a wide range of essential items just as the new school year approaches.

Running for 72 hours from Friday, August 7 through Sunday, August 9, 2026, the sales tax holiday exempts qualifying purchases from the state’s 6% sales tax as well as any applicable local taxes.

What’s Tax-Free?

Eligible tax-free items range from everyday apparel and accessories to classroom essentials. Key categories include:

Clothing and Shoes: Standard apparel, footwear, and accessories.

School Supplies: Backpacks, notebooks, writing materials, and required school texts.

Technology: Computers, printers, computer supplies, and qualifying software.

The tax exemption applies equally whether purchases are made in-store or online, giving consumers flexibility in how they shop. Shoppers utilizing online platforms are encouraged by state officials to verify local retailer delivery and curbside pickup options.

Historically, South Carolina shoppers save between $2 million and $3 million combined during the annual weekend event, which first launched in 2000.

Local retailers looking to participate can access a dedicated Retailer Toolkit provided by the state, which includes promotional graphics, social media content, and merchant FAQs. Business owners and consumers are also reminded to review online safety practices via the South Carolina Department of Revenue’s security portal at dor.sc.gov/securitycenter.