Florida’s Tax-Free August Is Here

TALLAHASSEE – Florida families preparing for the new school year will get a financial break throughout August thanks to the state’s extended Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which runs from Friday, Aug. 1 through Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025. The tax holiday was expanded under Florida’s sweeping tax relief package signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year, which also includes exemptions for disaster preparedness, summer recreation, and energy-efficient appliances.

The monthlong tax holiday applies to a wide range of school-related purchases, including clothing, footwear, backpacks, school supplies, personal computers, and accessories. No state sales tax will be charged on eligible items that fall within specific price limits, allowing Floridians to stretch their back-to-school budgets.

The Florida Department of Revenue provides detailed guidelines on tax-exempt items. Examples include:

• Clothing, footwear, and backpacks costing $100 or less per item.
• School supplies priced at $50 or less per item.
• Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles priced at $30 or less.
• Personal computers and accessories for non-commercial use, priced at $1,500 or less.

Local business owners across Florida are preparing for the increased traffic and are hopeful the extended window will give families more flexibility to shop small.

While big-box retailers typically see a surge during this period, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is urging consumers to make a deliberate effort to support locally owned businesses during the sales tax break.

“This year’s annual Back to School Sales Tax Holiday is extended for the entire month of August and is a great opportunity to support Florida’s small businesses,” said Bill Herrle, NFIB Florida Executive Director. “Small businesses are the engine of the state’s economy, and when you shop locally, you’re keeping your hard-earned money in the community and strengthening the local economy.”

For many families, the tax holiday is not only about saving money, but also about investing in their communities. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, 99.8% of Florida’s businesses are small businesses, employing millions of workers statewide.

By shopping at neighborhood stores, consumers contribute to job growth, community development, and a resilient local economy.

“Back-to-school shopping is a major annual event,” Herrle said. “It can also be a reminder that our dollars have power — power to support neighbors, strengthen schools, and grow our towns.”

Consumers can find more details about eligible items and exemptions by visiting the Florida Department of Revenue’s website.

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