Parents in the United States can save on back-to-school supplies during tax-free shopping days observed by many states. These periods exempt certain items from sales tax, with dates and eligible products varying by state.
According to the Federation of Tax Administrators, Alabama held its tax-free holiday from July 18 to 20, exempting school supplies priced at $50 or less and clothing up to $100. Several states, including Iowa, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Virginia, offered similar deals in early August.
Upcoming tax-free dates include Connecticut from August 16 to 22, exempting clothing and footwear up to $300. Florida’s holiday runs until August 31, covering learning aids up to $30, computers up to $1,500, school supplies up to $50, and clothing up to $100. From September 8 to December 31, Florida also exempts hunting, fishing, and camping supplies.
Maryland’s tax-free period is August 9 to 15 for back-to-school supplies. Massachusetts will hold a weekend in August exempting tangible personal property costing $2,500 or less, though exact dates are pending. Ohio expanded its holiday to 10 days in 2024, and for 2025, Governor DeWine announced a two-week period from August 1 to 14, exempting nearly all tangible personal property under $500. Texas observes its holiday from August 8 to 10, exempting school supplies, clothing, shoes, and backpacks.
