Florida Launches Permanent Monthlong Tax Holiday

Florida will launch a month-long Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday on August 1, 2025, allowing shoppers to avoid sales taxes on clothing and footwear priced at $100 or less, school supplies at $50 or less, learning aids at $30 or less, and personal computers and accessories up to $1,500 for noncommercial use. The holiday, made permanent by recent legislation, is designed to ease financial burdens for families as they prepare for the school year. Retailers anticipate large crowds and increased promotional activity, with national average back-to-school spending projected at $858 per K-12 student and $1,326 per college student. Supporters highlight the holiday's popularity and benefits for retailers, while critics contend that it predominantly helps wealthier shoppers rather than working families. The Tax Foundation notes that the recurring nature of the holiday aids retailers but questions its overall economic impact. The expanded holiday applies to both in-store and online purchases, aiming to provide flexibility for Florida families.