For Immediate Release July 31, 2026
As Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Begins, WV Democrats Remind Families Who Delivered the Relief
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — As West Virginia’s annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday begins today, the West Virginia Democratic Party is reminding families that the popular tax break was created through legislation championed by Democratic lawmakers who understood that preparing children for a new school year places a significant financial burden on working families.
The 2026 sales tax holiday began at 12:00 a.m. today, Friday, July 31, and continues through 11:59 p.m. Monday, August 3.
During the holiday, West Virginians will pay no state or local sales tax on qualifying purchases, including:
Clothing priced at $125 or less per item;
Laptop and tablet computers priced at $500 or less per item;
School supplies priced at $50 or less per item;
School instructional materials priced at $20 or less per item; and
Certain sports equipment priced at $150 or less per item.
There is no limit on the total amount a family may purchase during the holiday. Eligibility is determined by the price of each individual item. Qualifying online purchases are also exempt when the order is placed, paid for, and accepted by the retailer during the holiday period for immediate shipment.
While Governor Patrick Morrisey is issuing press releases promoting this popular program, the policy was the result of legislation promoted by House Minority Leader Sean Hornbuckle, former Delegate Lisa Zukoff and the late former Delegate Doug Skaff.
House Minority Leader Sean Hornbuckle said the tax holiday remains one of the legislative accomplishments of which he is most proud. “Times are hard, and unfortunately they have been that way for a while for West Virginia families. Of all the legislation I have been able to advance and see signed into law, this one holds a special place because it directly helps children and their families.
“I remember what it was like not to have much but to still want to feel fresh and confident when the school year started—laying out your clothes the night before that first day. We know that when children feel good about themselves, they are better prepared to perform in the classroom. I am incredibly proud to have worked with Lisa Zukoff and the late, great Doug Skaff to make this happen. I also want to thank every Delegate and Senator who voted for the legislation so Democrats could deliver meaningful relief for West Virginia families.”
West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin said Democrats welcome Governor Morrisey’s promotion of a Democratic initiative that has now become an important annual tradition for families across the state.
“We’re glad Governor Morrisey recognizes the value of a Democratic idea that puts money back into the pockets of West Virginia families,” Pushkin said. “At a time when the cost of clothing, computers and basic school supplies continues to strain family budgets, this tax holiday provides direct and practical relief.”
Pushkin invited the governor to support additional Democratic proposals designed to lower costs, protect children and strengthen West Virginia communities.
“If the governor is looking for more Democratic ideas to promote, we have several that would make an immediate difference in people’s lives,” Pushkin said. “He can join us in providing a gas tax holiday to give families relief at the pump. He can work with us to fix the school-funding crisis and keep public schools open in rural communities. And he can fully fund the school clothing voucher program.”
“The back-to-school sales tax holiday demonstrates what can happen when lawmakers put aside partisan politics and focus on the real needs of West Virginia families,” Pushkin continued. “Democrats delivered this relief, and we are ready to work with anyone who wants to deliver more.”
The West Virginia Tax Division notes that qualifying purchases must fall within the applicable per-item price limit. An item priced above the limit is taxable on its entire purchase price, rather than only on the portion exceeding the limit. Items purchased for use in a trade or business are not eligible.
A complete list of qualifying purchases and additional information is available through the West Virginia State Tax Division.
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