ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Almost no one likes to pay sales tax. That’s why parents love to do their back-to-school shopping during Ohio’s Tax Free Weekend.

This year, it’s much more than it used to be. The tax free holiday now runs for 10 full days, from July 30 through Aug. 8. More importantly, a lot more merchandise qualifies for tax-free status.

According to a news release from the Ohio Valley Mall and its parent Cafaro Co., the sales tax holiday will include all tangible personal property that is $500 or less. That includes not only school supplies and clothing but also sporting goods, electronic devices, internet sales and even restaurant meals consumed on the premises. The tax exemption does not include alcoholic beverages, tobacco, vaping products, items containing marijuana, motor vehicles, watercraft or outboard motors required to be titled pursuant to Chapter 1548 of the Ohio Revised Code.

There is no limit on the number of items purchased, as long as each one sells for $500 or less. For example, a customer may purchase four shirts, three pants, a pair of shoes and a jacket, with the purchase totaling $600. As long as each item sells for less than $500, there is no sales tax on the entire purchase. For more details on Ohio’s tax free holiday, consult this website: tax.ohio.gov/help-center/faqs/sales-and-use-tax-sales-tax-holiday/sales%20and-use-tax-sales-tax-holiday

The Ohio Valley Mall is located on Interstate 70, Exit 218-Mall Road, in St. Clairsville. It features more than 100 fine retailers, restaurateurs and hotels. For more information visit www.cafarocompany.com and www.ohiovalleymall.net.