Alabama Sales Tax Holiday Helps You Prepare for Severe Weather

Alabama is no stranger to severe weather, and being prepared is critical.

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The Yellowhammer State holds a severe weather preparedness sales tax holiday every year. According to the Alabama Department of Revenue, “the sales tax holiday takes place on the last full weekend of February, starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday and ending at midnight on Sunday.”

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In 2024, that weekend lands on Friday, February 23, through Sunday, February 25. To find out whether your communities have chosen to participate, click here.

It will be a great time to stock up on items, replenish your emergency kit, or buy a new one. As James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist says, “Tell a friend to tell a friend. Preparedness is the best gift to give.”

There will be “no state sales or use tax is due this weekend on certain items you may purchase to deal with severe weather (Act 2012-256, Rule 810-6-3-.66),” said the Alabama Department of Revenue.

Covered Items According to the Alabama Department of Revenue

Items that have a sales price of $60 or less per item:

• Batteries: AAA-cell batteries, AA-cell batteries, C-cell batteries, D-cell batteries, 6-volt batteries, 9-volt batteries. (NOTE: coin batteries, automobile batteries, and boat batteries are not exempt.)
• Cellular phone battery
• Cellular phone charger
• Portable self-powered or battery-powered radio, two-way radio, weather-band radio or NOAA weather radio
• Portable self-powered light source, including battery-powered flashlights, lanterns, or emergency glow sticks
• Tarpaulin, plastic sheeting, plastic drop cloths, and other flexible, waterproof sheeting
• Ground anchor system, such as bungee cords or rope, or tie-down kits
• Duct tape
• Plywood, window film or other materials specifically designed to protect window coverings
• Non-electric food storage cooler or water storage container
• Non-electric can opener
• Artificial ice, blue ice, ice packs, reusable ice
• Self-contained first aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Smoke detector
• Carbon monoxide detector
• Gas or diesel fuel tank or container

Single-purchase items that have a sales price of $1,000 or less:

• Any portable generator and power cords - used to provide light or communications or preserve food in the event of a power outage.