Ten U.S. states are holding tax-free shopping weekends beginning Friday, August 7, through Sunday, August 9, allowing consumers to avoid sales tax on eligible back-to-school purchases. The initiative, coordinated by the Federation of Tax Administrators, includes Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia, with Iowa running a shorter two-day event ending Saturday, August 8. Florida and Illinois are also conducting separate tax-relief periods with their own schedules and qualifying items.
Who qualifies and what’s covered?
Eligible purchases vary by state but typically include clothing under $75, school supplies up to $20, and in some cases, glasses or computer equipment. Ohio, for example, exempts clothing items priced at $75 or less and school supplies up to $20, while also including glasses and contacts. Other states may impose different price thresholds or item restrictions. Shoppers should verify their state’s specific rules, as qualifying items and spending limits differ widely.
When do the tax-free periods take effect?
Most states begin their tax-free weekends at 12:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, and conclude at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 9. Iowa’s event ends one day earlier, on Saturday, August 8. Florida and Illinois have independently scheduled relief periods with dates not aligned with the August 7–9 window.
Purpose and impact
The tax-free weekends are designed to ease financial pressure on families preparing for the new school year, particularly amid rising inflation and elevated household costs. According to the Federation of Tax Administrators, these temporary exemptions can reduce the overall cost of essential purchases, especially in states with high combined state and local sales tax rates. Financial literacy instructor Alex Beene noted that such holidays have become a common strategy over the past decade to help families and educators manage back-to-school expenses.
How to participate
Consumers must ensure purchases meet state-specific criteria, including item eligibility and price limits. Retailers are required to comply with local tax-exemption rules, and shoppers should retain receipts in case of verification. States encourage early planning to maximize savings during the limited-time window.
Additional states with ongoing relief
Beyond the August 7–9 window, Florida and Illinois are running separate tax-relief initiatives. Florida’s program, for instance, may include different qualifying items or timeframes, while Illinois’ schedule and restrictions are also state-specific. Travelers and online shoppers should confirm whether their purchases qualify under the destination state’s rules.