Ohio’s Tax-Free Holiday 2025 Begins: Enjoy Two Weeks of Sales Tax Exemption on Items Under $500
Ohio’s tax-free holiday runs August 1–14, 2025, with no sales tax on qualifying items under $500 in stores and online—including clothes, books, and tech.
Ohio shoppers can enjoy two weeks of tax-free purchases on back-to-school and essential items priced under $500, both in-store and online.
Shoppers across Ohio can now enjoy major savings as the state’s annual tax-free holiday kicks off from August 1, running for two full weeks until August 14, 2025. The initiative, backed by Governor Mike DeWine and state legislators, is aimed at easing financial pressure on families, particularly during the back-to-school season.
During this two-week period, all qualifying items priced under $500 are exempt from state sales tax, both in physical stores and online platforms such as Amazon.
“This holiday supports families not just with school supplies but with a wide range of essential goods,” said Governor DeWine in a statement. “We want Ohioans to get real value for their money.”
✅ What Items Are Tax-Free?
Ohio’s tax-free event applies per item, so if a product costs $500 or less, it qualifies for the exemption. The list includes:
- Electronics – Computers, TVs, and tech gadgets
- Clothing – All types of apparel
- Books – Including school textbooks and novels
- Home Goods – Furniture, cookware, and décor
- Plants – Indoor and outdoor greenery
- Sporting Goods – Gear and athletic clothing
- Food and Beverages – Dine-in meals, supplements, soft drinks
❌ What Is NOT Covered?
Certain products remain taxable during the holiday, including:
- Cars and motor vehicles
- Watercraft and outboard motors
- Alcohol and tobacco products
- Vapor products
- Marijuana or marijuana-infused items
“This is a practical way to help hardworking Ohioans,” said Speaker Matt Huffman, adding that it allows families to keep more of their hard-earned money.
💻 Does Amazon Participate?
Yes, Amazon and similar online retailers are required to honor the tax holiday for eligible items. However, purchases over $500, bundled items, or orders made outside the eligible dates may still be taxed.
🛍️ Important Notes:
The sales tax exemption is automatically applied—no special codes or coupons needed.
All Ohio businesses must comply; if not, shoppers can report violations to the Ohio Department of Taxation at (888) 405-4039 or text (800) 750-0750.
Ohio’s 2025 tax-free holiday is expected to bring a boost to local businesses and provide much-needed financial relief to residents preparing for the academic year and beyond.
