What You Can Buy Tax-Free in South Carolina This August

South Carolina’s Tax-Free Weekend starts August 1 at 12:01 a.m. and ends August 3 at midnight. For 72 hours, you can buy certain items without paying the 6% state sales tax, or any local taxes.

That means savings on back-to-school gear, clothes, computers, and more. But not everything is included.

Here’s what you can and can’t buy tax-free.

School Supplies That Are Exempt

If it’s for school, it’s likely tax-free. That includes:

• Art supplies

• Binders, folders, and notebooks

• Calculators and flash drives

• Daily planners and organizers

• Earbuds and headphones

• Glue, tape, staplers, and staples

• Highlighters, markers, pencils, pens, erasers

• Lunch boxes

• Musical instruments used for school

• Paper

• Scissors

• Uniforms for school, band, scouts, or sports

Planning ahead? Make a checklist before you shop.

School Supplies That Are Not Exempt

Some items don’t qualify, even if students use them:

• Cleaning supplies

• Glasses

• Hobby or toy kits

• Office supplies

• Tissues or paper towels

• Anything not used for school assignments

If it’s not meant for learning, it doesn’t count.

Clothing and Accessories You Can Buy Tax-Free

You can get most everyday clothes tax-free. That includes:

• Belts, suspenders, hats, scarves

• Hair accessories

• Shirts, pants, shorts, jeans

• Dresses, skirts, suits

• Athletic wear, uniforms, dance gear

• Sleepwear, socks, underwear

• Coats, gloves, earmuffs, vests

• Rainwear and umbrellas

• Shoes, including cleats, skates, slippers, orthopedic shoes

• Diapers and bibs

• Formal wear and graduation gowns

• Bridal gowns and veils

Think about your upcoming needs—school, sports, or even events like weddings or prom.

Clothing and Accessories That Are Not Exempt

Here’s what still gets taxed:

• Backpacks not used for school

• Briefcases

• Wallets and change purses

• Jewelry

• Watches and bands

• Cosmetics

• Glasses and sunglasses

• Safety gear (masks, goggles, equipment)

• Sports equipment (pads, helmets, life vests, etc.)

The rule is simple: if it’s not basic clothing or directly related to school, it’s likely taxable.

Computers and Tech That Are Exempt

Need to upgrade your tech? These items qualify:

• Computers

• Printers

• Printer supplies like ink

• Software and service contracts (when sold with software)

• Computer accessories (monitors, keyboards, scanners) sold as a bundle with a computer

Back-to-school tech is a big part of the weekend. But be sure it’s bundled if you want accessories to qualify.

Tech That Is Not Exempt

Not everything electronic is included. These are taxable:

• Cell phones and smartphones

• Cameras

• eReaders

• Music and video players

• Game consoles

• Replacement parts sold separately

Think of this as a school-only tech break. Entertainment or business gear won’t count.

Bed and Bath Items That Are Exempt

Looking to refresh your home? Some home items qualify:

• Pillows, pillowcases, mattress pads

• Blankets, duvets, bedspreads

• Sheets and bed skirts

• Bath mats, rugs, towels, washcloths

• Shower curtains and liners

These items often show up on college or dorm checklists—another reason they’re included.

Bed and Bath Items That Are Not Exempt

The rest still get taxed. These include:

• Mattresses and box springs

• Sleeping bags

• Bathroom décor or accessories

• Shower curtain rings, rods, hooks

• Paper goods (toilet paper, napkins, etc.)

• Furniture

• Cookware

• Tools and hardware

• Table settings and wastebaskets

• Window treatments

If it’s more home décor or not related to student housing, it’s not included.

Final Tip Before You Shop

Read the fine print. The tax-free weekend helps you save, but only if you know what qualifies. Keep your receipts. Shop with a list. Stick to essentials.

Are you ready to take advantage of the savings?