MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama families can save money on back-to-school essentials during the state’s 20th annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 18, and runs through midnight on Sunday, July 20, 2025.
During this three-day tax holiday, shoppers can purchase certain school supplies, computers, books, and clothing free of Alabama’s 4% state sales or use tax. In addition, more than 300 cities and counties across Alabama are waiving their local sales taxes, giving families even greater savings. To find out if your community is participating, check the 2025 Participating Cities and Counties list.
“This tax holiday makes a real difference for Alabama families and our retailers alike,” said Rick Brown, president of the Alabama Retail Association. “It not only lowers the cost of essential school items for parents but also drives valuable sales for local stores which strengthens our economy.”
Local retailers echo that sentiment, saying the weekend has become a vital part of serving their communities each year.
“The sales tax holiday has become very important to us over the years,” explained Michael Gee, co-owner of the Pant’s Store and chairman of the Alabama Retail Association. “Parents have become accustomed to the sales tax holiday, and they look forward to it every year. It’s a great way for families to save money and get what they need for back to school.”
Although the sales tax holiday targets back-to-school shoppers, any consumer can benefit from the savings offered during the weekend. A wide range of items such as diapers, printer ink, flash drives and art supplies are exempt during the holiday, so there is a reason for everyone to shop.
Learn more at alabamaretail.org/resources/salestaxholidays/back-to-school/
(Resources for consumers and retailers
compiled by Alabama Retail Association)
The Alabama Retail Association represents retailers, the largest private employer in the state of Alabama, before the Alabama Legislature and the U.S. Congress. Through sales of food, clothing, furniture, medicine and more, our 4,500 independent merchant and national
company members touch almost every aspect of daily living. Since 1943, we’ve worked to promote what’s best for the retail industry in Alabama. Whether voicing the retail view when public policy is made, educating members about issues that impact them, negotiating rates for benefits and services or communicating the retail story, the Alabama Retail Association and its members are better together.
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