Florida's upcoming back-to-school sales tax holiday starts July 29

Governor Ron DeSantisPhoto byVideo captured image

Governor Ron DeSantis announced Florida's upcoming back-to-school sales tax holiday at a news conference Thursday, highlighting the potential savings for families grappling with rising costs.

When Does Tax-Free Holiday Begins

The two-week tax break, set to begin Monday (July 29), will exempt a range of school-related items from sales tax. DeSantis, speaking at Mo's Bagels & Deli in Aventura, emphasized the broad scope of the initiative.

This includes learning aids and jigsaw puzzles priced at $30 or less, school supplies at $50 or less, clothing, footwear, and accessories at $100 or less, and computers and related accessories at $1,500 or less when purchased for non-commercial or personal use.

"Starting Monday again, we are able to do two weeks of back-to-school sales tax holiday for Florida families," DeSantis announced at the news conference.

This is an opportunity to be able to save real money.

"It will allow you to save money on the most important school supplies, including any school supplies selling for $50 or less is tax free. Clothing, footwear and other apparel are $100 or less, tax free. Learning aids up to $30, tax-free,” DeSantis stated.

Importance of Tax Relief

Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized the importance of this tax relief, especially for parents with multiple children, noting how quickly expenses can add up.

He also commended the state legislature for renewing this initiative to help offset rising costs over the past few years.

"I think it's important that we're able to provide relief for Florida families, particularly given how things have gone up so much over the last 3.5 years," he added.

The tax holiday, running through October 11, comes as parents prepare for back-to-school expenses. With inflation impacting household budgets, the initiative aims to ease the financial burden of school shopping.

Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris joined DeSantis at the event, underpinning the state's commitment to supporting families.

DeSantis also reminded Floridians that baby items remain permanently tax-free in the state, a measure implemented to support new parents.