Carpino: Tax-Free Week Coming Soon

CROMWELL- With the start of school just around the corner, State Rep. Christie Carpino (Cromwell & Portland) wants to remind you to take advantage of the upcoming “Tax Free Week” which runs from Sunday, August 17 through Saturday, August 23.

The one-week event eliminates Connecticut’s 6.35 percent sales tax on all clothing and footwear costing less than $300 per item and runs from the third Sunday in August through the following Saturday.

“This is a bit of much needed relief for all Connecticut families preparing for their children to go return to school,” said Carpino.

Since sales tax is calculated after the use of any coupons or discounts, if the final price is less than $300, the sale is exempt from taxes. Clothing or footwear under $300 either rented or put on layaway is also tax-free. Purchases totaling more than $300 will have sales tax calculated on the full cost.

Tax Free Week was first enacted in 2000, and applies to most clothing and footwear purchases that are intended for everyday use. Goods not covered under the program include items that are solely intended for use in sporting activities and accessories such as jewelry, watches, handbags, and wallets.

Clothing and footwear will be exempt from sales and use taxes during that week. A full list of qualifying and non-qualifying items can be found at the DRS website.