Retail stores across Texas are preparing and bracing for the onslaught of customers during the state’s annual tax holiday Friday through Sunday.

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Shoppers can save approximately $8 on every $100 they spend and many stores tack on additional sales to draw in customers during one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year.  Items exempt from the sales tax include most clothing and shoes priced under $100.

Tax-free items include things like baby clothes, shirts, pants, socks, shoes, pajamas, raincoats, sweatshirts, swimsuits and underclothes.

In 2009, the Texas Legislature expanded the list of items that qualify for the tax exemption.  In addition to clothes, footwear and some backpacks, families can also get a sales tax break on most school supplies priced at less than $100. The school supplies must be those used by elementary or secondary students.

Items NOT EXEMPT, which WILL BE TAXED, include things like accessories, cleated shoes, roller blades, purses and laundering services.

On the surface, it might seem a bit much for people to be excited about saving only eight dollars for every 100 dollars they spend.  But the retailers make it worth the effort by cutting prices to attract shoppers.  That means for three days this weekend, shoppers will find bargains they won't see again till Christmas.

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