HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — For more than a decade, the Alabama Department of Revenue has allowed an annual, weekend-long event exempting from sales tax items crucial for severe weather preparedness and survival. This year, that weekend will run from 12:01 a.m. through 12:01 a.m. Friday, Feb. 24, and ends at midnight, Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The Alabama Retail Association says now is the time to stock up, tax-free on common supplies that every home and business needs to prepare for a natural disaster or even a general emergency.
Certain emergency preparedness items will be exempt from the state’s 4-percent state sales tax, and in some cities and counties, local taxes are waived on those items as well.
Among the eligible items that should be on a severe weather prep checklist are batteries, including cell phone batteries and chargers. A battery-powered radio or all-hazards NOAA weather radio is also recommended, as are flashlights, plastic tarps or waterproof sheeting, Igloo-style food and drink coolers, artificial ice packs, first-aid kits, and fire extinguishers.
Individual items on the approved supply list must cost $60 or less at the checkout to be eligible.
In addition, any single portable generator of $1,000 or less is also eligible for the sales tax break.
Take the time while you're gathering supplies to make sure you're ready the moment severe weather strikes.
Don't forget to have a "go-bag" with shelf-stable food and beverages ready to use in the event of extended power loss. Keep a supply of cash on hand in case debit card networks are inaccessible in the immediacy of a natural disaster.
Also make plans for shelter if you do not have adequate protection from flooding or high winds.