Rising costs are still top of mind for many families as they prepare for back-to-school shopping and everyday expenses. If you're looking for ways to stretch your budget a little further, Ohio's Tax-Free Weekend is a great opportunity to save on qualifying purchases. This year, the holiday is August 7th through August 9th. Review the FAQs below so you’re ready to shop and use a digital wallet in-app, in-person, or online for faster, more secure payments.
FAQs about this year’s tax-free weekend
What items qualify for Ohio's Tax-Free Weekend?
- Clothing items of $75 or less
- Sports or recreational equipment are excluded, among other items. Check the Ohio Department of Taxation website for more details.
- School supplies of $20 or less, such as notebooks, pens, and folders.
- School instructional materials for $20 or less, allowing teachers to take advantage of the holiday. Stock up on workbooks, maps, and more.
Can I purchase more than one item in the same transaction?
Yes! The sales tax exemption is item by item. See the example below for a $200 clothing purchase:
- Shirt ($50) – sales tax exempt
- Diapers ($50) – sales tax exempt
- Pants ($100) – not exempt (over the $75 threshold)
Even if your pricey pants don’t qualify, you can still score some points or cash back using your credit card.
Tip: Add your debit or credit card to the digital wallet of your choice for faster, more secure payments. These apps encrypt your card details, giving you an added layer of purchase protection. Once added, you can use a digital wallet to pay in-person (simply open the app and hold your device close to the card reader), online, or in-app.
If my item costs more, does the first portion qualify?
Unfortunately, no. If, for example, you have a clothing item that’s $100, the first $75 doesn’t qualify for the sales tax exemption. Remember: clothing items must be $75 or under, and school supplies and instructional materials must be $20 or under to qualify.
Can a purchase be split?
Nope! Whether it’s a pair of shoes or a pair of earrings, if items are commonly sold together, they have to be rung up as a pair. The item will only qualify if it falls under the sales price threshold (e.g. flip flops under $75).
If you have more questions about Ohio’s tax-free weekend, refer to the Ohio Department of Taxation’s website. Have questions about credit cards? We can handle that! Whether you’re a current GECU cardholder exploring digital wallet options or you’re interested in applying for a credit card, one of our friendly team members is happy to assist you. Contact us online or pay us a visit at your local branch (skip the lines by scheduling an appointment in advance!). For even more convenience, schedule a Virtual Branch appointment and meet with a local GECU team member from the comfort of home, work, or wherever summer takes you!
