Ohio’s 2025 sales tax holiday begins Friday, offering back-to-school shoppers an extended opportunity to save. This year’s program, expanded by the state, will run from midnight Aug. 1 until 11:59 p.m. Aug. 14. During this period, Ohio consumers can enjoy a sales tax exemption on most items priced at $500 or less, classified by the state as “tangible personal property.” Details and exclusions are available on the Ohio Department of Taxation’s website.
Exclusions from Ohio’s sales tax holiday include:
– Watercraft or outboard motors
– Motor vehicles
– Alcoholic beverages
– Tobacco products
– Vapor products
– Items containing marijuana
Eligible tax-free purchases cover a wide array of items:
– Electronics: Computers, televisions, and gadgets
– Clothing: All apparel items
– Books: Novels, textbooks, and more
– Home Goods: Furniture, kitchenware, and décor
– Plants: Indoor and outdoor
– Sporting Goods: Equipment and apparel
– Food and Beverages: Dine-in food, dietary supplements, and soft drinks
There is no cap on the total purchase amount as long as each qualifying item costs $500 or less. If exempt and nonexempt items are sold together, the total price is subject to sales tax. Items priced over $500 that are part of a set cannot be sold individually to qualify.
Additional considerations involve store discounts, items sold outside of physical stores, and layaway sales. If a retailer discounts an eligible item to $500 or less, it qualifies for the exemption, even if a coupon or loyalty card is needed. Mail, phone, email, or internet sales qualify if the order is placed during the holiday period, regardless of delivery date. However, orders and payments made before the holiday do not qualify, even if delivered during the exemption period. Layaway items ordered or picked up during the holiday are also exempt.
Since 2019, Ohio Senate Bill 226 has established a permanent sales tax holiday, initially lasting three days. Gov. Mike DeWine announced in May that the holiday would be extended to two weeks for the 2025 school year. “The timing of this year’s sales tax holiday not only supports families preparing for back-to-school but also provides relief on other important household needs,” DeWine said in a statement.