Ohio’s Sales Tax Holiday returns in 2025 with a full two-week window, giving shoppers across the state the opportunity to make a wide range of purchases without paying state or local sales tax. Running from August 1 through August 14, the holiday applies to most tangible personal property priced at $500 or less per item, both in-store and online.

Governor Mike DeWine described the timing as intentional support for families, especially as back-to-school shopping ramps up, “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.”

What Qualifies

• Electronics such as laptops, tablets, and TVs
• All types of clothing and shoes
• Books, including textbooks and novels
• Home goods like furniture, kitchenware, and decor
• Sporting goods and fitness gear
• Indoor and outdoor plants
• Dine-in meals, soft drinks, and dietary supplements

There is no limit to how much you can spend in total – as long as each item is $500 or less, it qualifies. For example, buying five items at $100 each is fully tax-exempt.

What’s Not Included

Some items remain taxable, even during the holiday. These include:

• Vehicles, boats, or outboard motors
• Alcohol, tobacco, and vapor products
• Marijuana or marijuana-derived items
• Services such as repairs or haircuts

Online Purchases

Online, phone, or mail purchases are eligible as long as the order is placed, paid for, and accepted by the retailer during the holiday window. Delivery may occur afterward. If only part of a shipment includes tax-exempt items, shipping charges must be split proportionally and taxed accordingly.

Exchanges, Returns, and Discounts

• If an eligible item is exchanged for the same one after the holiday, no tax is added.
• If exchanged for a different item after the holiday, sales tax applies.
• If you return a taxable item during the holiday and use store credit on a qualifying item, that second purchase will be tax-free.
• Discounts or coupons can bring items under the $500 threshold and make them eligible.

Do Retailers Have to Participate?

Yes. The sales tax holiday is set by state law, and all vendors are required to honor it. If you’re charged tax in error, you can request a refund from the retailer or contact the Ohio Department of Taxation.

For more information and a full FAQ, visit the Ohio Department of Taxation’s website.