Ohio's tax-free holiday starts tomorrow. Here's what items won't be included

Ohio's tax-free holiday is right around the corner, and shoppers can save big on clothes, school supplies and back to school items as early as tomorrow. While there are plenty of items that won't be taxed, not everything qualifies for the statewide discount.

Here's what to know about what's not included in this year's sales tax holiday.

When does tax-free week start?

The tax exemption holiday, slated to begin July 30 at midnight, will last 10 days . Items covered under the tax exemption include tangible personal property that is $500 or less (anything that can be touched, moved or consumed), but other items will be taxed, according to the Ohio Department of Taxation .

What items do not qualify for Ohio's sales tax holiday?

Watercraft and motor vehicles are not eligible for tax exemption, as well as tangible personal property over $500. Cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, vaping products, and items containing marijuana will not be covered.

The exemption also does not apply to taxable services like alterations on clothing, car repairs, or similar services. Shoppers can't use the tax discount on periodic payments that require multiple payments over time, even if the item is under $500.

Does the sales tax holiday apply to restaurants?

Yes. While you can bypass the sales tax charge on food ordered from drive-thru, carryout or delivery, customers dining in are usually charged sales tax. Each menu item under $500 qualifies for the sales tax holiday – as well as soft drinks for dine-in and carryout orders – but alcohol will still be taxed.

Are online purchases tax exempt?

Items ordered online are covered under the tax-free weekend. If you place an order before the holiday begins and it's delivered during the holiday, it will be taxed. But if ordered during the holiday, the cost of shipping and handling is also tax-free.

If you're buying something on layaway that's less than $500, the exemption will apply during the sales tax holiday.

What about 'buy one, get one' sales?

If you catch a BOGO sale, both items cannot qualify for the sales tax discount. "For example, if a consumer buys one item at $800 and receives another item for free, the purchase would be subject to sales tax," according to Ohio's Department of Taxation.

What are the sales tax rates in Ohio?

The state sales and use tax rate is 5.75% on most retail sales and services, but it can vary depending on the county. Here are the tax rates for the most populated counties across the state:

• Franklin County: 7.5%
• Cuyahoga County: 8%
• Hamilton County: 7.8%
• Summit County: 6.75%
• Montgomery County: 7.5%

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio's tax-free holiday starts tomorrow. Here's what items won't be included