According to the National Retail Federation, the average household plans to spend roughly $850 on back-to-school shopping in 2025. With Tennessee’s tax-free weekend just around the corner, now is a great time to stock up on things like back-to-school items and clothing without racking up a huge bill! Here at Ascend, we’re giving you the rundown on tax-free weekend, as well as the best items to buy during this period.

What is Tax-Free Weekend?
Tennessee's traditional sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 25, 2025, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 27, 2025. During this time clothing, school supplies and computers may be purchased tax-free. However, there are a few caveats. The following items are not tax-exempt during this period:

• Apparel items individually priced at more than $100

• Items sold together, such as shoes, cannot be split up to stay beneath the $100 maximum

• Items such as jewelry, handbags, or sports and recreational equipment

• School and art supplies individually priced at more than $100

• Storage media, like flash drives and compact discs

• Individually purchased software

• Printer supplies

• Household appliances

Best Things to Buy During TN’s Tax-Free Weekend
With tax-free weekend landing just before the beginning of the school year, now is a great time to stock up on back-to-school items. Here are a few ideas of what to shop for during tax-free weekend:

School Supplies
Whether you’re buying notebooks, binders, pens, or looseleaf paper, now is a great time to stock up on these items. Even if you aren’t in school, this could be a great time to restock a home office.

Clothes
In Tennessee, as long as an apparel item is priced at less than $100, it is tax exempt during tax free weekend. You can plan for the future by buying fall and winter clothes during this time.

Computers and Tablets
As long as you’re spending $1,500 or less, computers and tablets are tax-exempt during Tennessee’s tax-free weekend. The tax savings on these items can add up, so this is a great time to purchase a new computer if  you’re in the market.

Now, you can be prepared to take full advantage of Tennessee’s tax- free weekend and make the most of this opportunity to save For more budgeting tips, check out some of our free financial education courses.