COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio’s annual sales tax holiday is returning this summer, but shoppers should expect a scaled-back version compared to recent years.
Governor Mike DeWine announced the 2026 Ohio Sales Tax Holiday will run for three days, from August 7 through August 9, giving families a limited window to save on back-to-school essentials.
SHORTER HOLIDAY AFTER RECENT EXPANSION
The event traditionally takes place just before the start of the school year, helping families cut costs on clothing and school supplies.
But after expanded versions in recent years—including a 10-day holiday in 2024 and a two-week event in 2025—state leaders are returning to the more traditional format.
Officials say the change was made through recent legislation tied to property tax relief efforts.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
According to the Ohio Department of Taxation, the 2026 tax holiday will apply to:
- Clothing priced at $75 or less
- School supplies priced at $20 or less
- Instructional materials priced at $20 or less
Eligible items include everyday school needs such as:
- Shoes, coats, and uniforms
- Calculators, scissors, and lunch boxes
- Textbooks and workbooks
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
The state is also rolling back broader exemptions seen in recent years.
Notably, the 2026 holiday will NOT include items priced under $500, a major change from previous expansions.
Other excluded items include:
- Restaurant food
- Motor vehicles and boats
- Alcohol, tobacco, and vape products
- Marijuana-related items
- Business purchases and taxable services
Officials also note that partial exemptions are not allowed—items must fall fully under the price cap to qualify.
WHY THE CHANGE?
A spokesperson for the governor’s office says funds previously used for the expanded holiday will now be redirected.
According to the Ohio Office of Budget and Management, those dollars will help support Inflation Cap Credits for property taxpayers under legislation passed late last year.
BOTTOM LINE
Ohio’s sales tax holiday is still on the calendar—but in a more limited form. Families will have three days in early August to save on key school items, as the state shifts its broader tax relief strategy toward property tax measures.
