Ohio’s annual Sales Tax Holiday is a highly anticipated event that allows shoppers to save big on essential items like clothing, school supplies, and other qualifying purchases. If you’re wondering when the next tax-free weekend is, what items are eligible, and how much you can save, this guide covers everything you need to know.
What Is a Sales Tax Holiday?
A Sales Tax Holiday is a temporary period—usually a weekend—when state and local sales taxes are suspended on certain goods. These events are designed to help families save money on back-to-school shopping, storm preparedness items, or other necessities.
Ohio has participated in sales tax holidays in the past, though the schedule and eligible items can change yearly. Let’s break down what to expect in 2024.
Does Ohio Have a Sales Tax Holiday in 2024?
As of now, Ohio does not have a statewide Sales Tax Holiday scheduled for 2024. Unlike some states (such as Texas or Florida), Ohio has not consistently held an annual tax-free weekend in recent years. However, lawmakers occasionally propose new tax-free periods, so it’s worth checking for updates before major shopping seasons.
Why Doesn’t Ohio Have a Regular Sales Tax Holiday?
- Budget Constraints: Suspending sales tax revenue, even briefly, impacts state and local budgets.
- Alternative Tax Relief: Ohio offers other tax breaks, such as income tax cuts, instead of sales tax holidays.
- Retailer Pushback: Some businesses argue that tax-free weekends create logistical challenges without significantly boosting long-term sales.
What Items Would Qualify If Ohio Had a Sales Tax Holiday?
If Ohio reinstates a Sales Tax Holiday, it would likely follow similar guidelines to past events or neighboring states. Typically, tax-free items include:
1. Clothing & Footwear
- Eligible: Shirts, pants, shoes, jackets (under a certain price, often 75−75−100 per item).
- Not Eligible: Accessories (belts, handbags), specialty clothing (formal wear, sports uniforms).
2. School Supplies
- Eligible: Notebooks, pencils, backpacks, calculators (usually under 20−20−30 per item).
- Not Eligible: Electronics, furniture, non-educational items.
3. Storm Preparedness Supplies
Some states include emergency items like:
- Batteries
- Generators (under a set price)
- Flashlights
How Much Can You Save During a Sales Tax Holiday?
Ohio’s combined state and local sales tax rate averages around 7.25%, meaning shoppers could save roughly:
- 7.25ona7.25ona100 purchase
- 14.50ona14.50ona200 purchase
While this may not seem like a huge discount, families buying multiple backpacks, shoes, and school supplies can save $50+ in a single weekend.
States Near Ohio with Sales Tax Holidays
If you’re willing to cross state lines, nearby states often hold tax-free weekends, including:
1. Indiana
- When: Early August
- What’s Included: Clothing (100orless),schoolsupplies(100orless),schoolsupplies(20 or less).
2. Kentucky
- When: Late July/Early August
- What’s Included: Clothing (150orless),schoolsupplies(150orless),schoolsupplies(30 or less).
3. Pennsylvania
- No Sales Tax on Clothing: Unlike Ohio, Pennsylvania never charges sales tax on clothing, making it a year-round shopping destination for budget-conscious buyers.
Will Ohio Bring Back the Sales Tax Holiday?
There’s always a chance Ohio could reintroduce a Sales Tax Holiday, especially if neighboring states see success. Advocacy groups and retailers sometimes push for these events to boost local economies.
How to Stay Updated
- Check the Ohio Department of Taxation website for announcements.
- Follow local news outlets around June/July for potential legislative updates.
- Sign up for retailer newsletters (Walmart, Target, etc.)—they often promote tax-free deals.
Alternative Ways to Save on Back-to-School Shopping in Ohio
Since Ohio doesn’t currently have a Sales Tax Holiday, here are some other ways to cut costs:
1. Shop During Ohio’s Back-to-School Sales
Major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Staples offer deep discounts in late July and early August.
2. Use Coupons & Cashback Apps
- Rakuten, Honey, and RetailMeNot offer online discounts.
- Store loyalty programs (Kohl’s Cash, Target Circle) provide extra savings.
3. Buy Used or Swap Items
- Thrift stores (Goodwill, Plato’s Closet) sell gently used clothing at low prices.
- School supply swaps (organized by PTAs or community groups) help families exchange unused supplies.
Final Thoughts: Will Ohio’s Sales Tax Holiday Return?
While Ohio doesn’t currently have a Sales Tax Holiday scheduled for 2024, shoppers still have plenty of ways to save. Keep an eye on legislative updates, consider shopping in neighboring states, and take advantage of seasonal sales to maximize your back-to-school budget.
For official updates, visit:
Would you support Ohio bringing back a Sales Tax Holiday? Let us know in the comments!
