Tax-Free Weekend

Summer brings long, lazy days and the chance to save on back-to-school shopping with tax-free weekends. Many states, including Ohio, offer tax holidays to ease the cost of essential purchases. While Indiana and Kentucky do not currently offer tax-free weekends in 2025, here’s a look at what Ohio provides and how residents in nearby states can plan their shopping.

What is a Tax-Free Weekend?

During a tax-free weekend, states temporarily waive sales tax on specific items, typically back-to-school essentials like clothing, shoes, computers, and school supplies. Eligible items often have price caps, such as $100 for clothing or $500 for computers. Not all states participate—five states (Alaska, Oregon, Montana, New Hampshire, and Delaware) have no statewide sales tax, and others, like Indiana and Kentucky, do not currently offer tax holidays in 2025.Tax holidays usually last a weekend but can extend longer, like Florida’s hunting and fishing supplies exemption from September 8 to December 31. Local sales taxes may still apply in some areas, so savings vary. Ohio’s Tax-Free Weekend in 2025 Ohio offers a robust tax holiday from August 1–14, one of the longest in the country. It covers all tangible personal property priced at $500 or less, with some exceptions. This includes:

• Clothing and footwear
• School supplies
• Computers and electronics
• Other items like books or accessories, as long as they meet the price cap

Ohio’s state sales tax is 5.75%, but combined with local taxes, rates can reach up to 8% in some areas. Shopping during this period can save Ohio residents significant amounts, especially on big-ticket items like laptops or tablets under $500.Indiana and Kentucky: No Tax Holidays in 2025 Unfortunately, Indiana and Kentucky are not listed among the states offering tax-free weekends in 2025, according to the Sales Tax Institute and state taxation offices. Indiana’s state sales tax is 7%, and Kentucky’s is 6%, with no exemptions planned for back-to-school or other categories this year. Residents in these states may consider:

• Shopping in Ohio during its August 1–14 tax holiday, especially if they live near the border.
• Taking advantage of online retailers honoring Ohio’s tax holiday, provided they meet eligibility rules (e.g., shipping charges may affect item price caps).

Tips for Ohio Shoppers (and Indiana/Kentucky Residents)

• Plan Ahead: Ohio’s 14-day tax holiday gives ample time, but creating a shopping list ensures you stay within the $500-per-item cap and avoid impulse buys.
• Set a Reminder: Mark August 1–14 on your calendar to maximize Ohio’s tax-free period.
• Know the Rules: Visit Ohio’s Department of Taxation website for specifics on eligible items and exceptions (e.g., athletic apparel may not qualify). Indiana and Kentucky residents should confirm cross-state shopping rules, as some retailers may require proof of residency.
• Shop Online: Ohio’s tax holiday applies to online purchases, but check shipping costs, as they may push items over the $500 threshold.
• Compare Prices: Look for store discounts to pair with tax savings. A computer priced at $510 might be on sale for $499, qualifying for Ohio’s tax break.

Savings Potential Ohio’s sales tax savings range from 5.75% to 8%, depending on local rates. For example:

• A $500 computer in Ohio saves $28.75–$40.
• A $100 backpack saves $5.75–$8.

Indiana and Kentucky residents shopping in Ohio could save similar amounts but should factor in travel costs. Alternatively, watch for retailer promotions in your home state, as stores often align sales with nearby tax holidays.

Ohio’s extended tax-free period from August 1–14, 2025, offers a prime opportunity for back-to-school savings on items up to $500. While Indiana and Kentucky lack tax holidays this year, their residents can consider crossing into Ohio or shopping online to take advantage of these savings. Always check your state’s taxation website for the latest details, as tax holiday rules can change with state legislature approval. Happy shopping!