AUSTIN — Texas Comptroller Susan Combs reminds shoppers they can save money on everything from pens, jeans and shoes to backpacks, as well as many other items priced under $100, during the state’s annual sales tax holiday.

This year, the tax holiday is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 17 through Sunday, Aug. 19.

“Shoppers across Texas can take advantage of the three-day sales tax holiday and save extra money for their budgets,” Combs said. “Families gearing up for the new school year would not pay any sales tax for back-to-school items, from clothing and footwear to school supplies, during that weekend.”

As in previous years, the law exempts most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced under $100 from sales and use taxes, which could save shoppers about $8 on every $100 they spend.

Subject to the criteria explained on the State Comptroller’s website, all sales of qualifying items made during the holiday period qualify for the exemption, including items sold over the Internet, television or by mail. Lay-away plans can be used again this year to take advantage of the sales tax holiday.

Lists of apparel and school supplies that may be purchased tax-free can be found on the Comptroller’s website at www.TexasTaxHoliday.org.