COLUMBUS — Ohioans will soon have two weeks to make tax‑free purchases just in time for back‑to‑school shopping and everyday needs.
According to an Ohio Department of Taxation bulletin, the annual “sales‑tax holiday” will run from 12 a.m. Friday, August 1, through 11:59 p.m. Thursday, August 14.
During this period, most personal property priced at $500 or less per item both in-store and online is exempt from the state’s 5.75 percent sales tax, plus any applicable local levies according to a Kiplinger report.. Eligible items include clothing, school and office supplies, electronics, furniture, sporting goods, tools, and meals at restaurants (excluding alcohol) according to Moorman, Harting & Company.
The exemption is determined per item so a $600 TV would still be fully taxable while a $499 laptop or $4 iced‑tea qualifies according to CBIZ. Shoppers ordering online only pay tax‑free if the order is accepted and paid for during the holiday, even if delivered later. Shipping charges on qualifying items are also exempt; if you mix taxable and exempt items in one order, shipping must be prorated.
What is still taxable? The list includes motor vehicles, watercraft (and outboard motors requiring a title), alcoholic beverages, tobacco, vapor products, marijuana‑related items, and services according a state news release.
This marks the second year Ohio extended its tax‑free period beyond the traditional weekend. In 2024, lawmakers expanded it from three days to one, and this year’s window stretches to two weeks to maximize savings for families.
Governor Mike DeWine released a statement emphasizing the timing is aimed at easing financial pressure on families preparing for school and other household needs.
House Speaker Matt Huffman added it’s “a practical way we can help working families keep more of their hard‑earned dollars,” while Senate President Rob McColley affirmed, “the hardworking taxpayers deserve this well‑earned break.”
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s Consumer Advocate newsletter echoed the sentiment, calling it “good news to know” and encouraged shoppers to retain receipts and understand return policies.
Why now? With national trends showing rising prices due in part to tariffs and inflation, Ohio’s move is part of a broader strategy to support consumers. As Kiplinger reports, many states are launching tax‑free weekends this summer; Ohio’s two‑week holiday positions it at the leading edge, according to Kiplinger.
What to know before you shop:
- Per‑item limit: Items over $500 remain taxable.
- Unit sales: Bundled goods (e.g. paired items) must be sold as a unit to qualify.
- Online orders: Tax exemption applies if orders are placed and accepted during Aug. 1–14.
- Mixed transactions: Retailers must prorate tax for orders with both taxable and tax‑free items; shipping charges follow the same rule
- Dine‑in meals: Non‑alcoholic restaurant meals also qualify but expect point‑of‑sale confusion, especially among smaller retailers.
Retailers are required by law to participate in this, so point‑of‑sale systems must be ready. The Ohio Department of Taxation and Attorney General encourages shoppers to call 1‑888‑405‑4039 or explore the Tax Department’s website for FAQs and guidance.
