Take Advantage of Tennessee’s Tax-Free Weekend to Boost Your Emergency Go-Kit

Tennessee’s annual sales tax holiday weekend is just around the corner, starting Friday, July 25 and running through Sunday, July 27.  The tax-free weekend is the perfect opportunity to save money and get better prepared for the unexpected.

While many families use this weekend to stock up on school supplies and clothing, it’s also a great time to think about building or refreshing your emergency go-kit. That’s the kit you grab when you need to leave your home quickly, packed with essential items to help you and your family stay safe and comfortable during a disaster.

During this holiday, Tennesseans can save nearly 10 percent on qualifying clothing, school supplies, and computers. Clothing and school supplies priced at $100 or less will be tax-free, and computers priced at $1500 or less will also be tax-free. Qualifying items may be purchased online and in stores. Many of these tax-free items can double as go-kit supplies:

• Clothing: Pack an extra set of clothes, socks, and sturdy shoes for each family member. Gloves may be helpful for debris clean-up. 
• Backpacks & Bags: Use a school backpack as your go-bag base.
• Supplies: Notebooks, pens, binder pouches, pencil boxes, and even sheet protectors for copies of important documents can all be useful in an emergency. 
• Technology: Laptops or tablets can help you stay connected or access information during an evacuation.
• Specific Needs: Consider the needs of all your family members, which may include adult or children’s diapers.  If you have children at home, add items like crayons, markers, and drawing pads or other activities for children if you need to move to a safe room or evacuate. 

For more details on exempt items, visit tntaxholiday.com.

Remember, after an emergency, you may not be able to receive immediate help. We encourage all Tennesseans to build a kit with the essentials your family and pets will need if you must shelter in place or evacuate.  Review suggested items here.

Preparedness doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning, the Sales Tax Holiday is a smart time to build peace of mind, one item at a time.