Tax Free Week: August 20th – August 26th
With the start of another school year just around the corner, I wanted to remind you to take advantage of the upcoming “Tax Free Week” which runs from Sunday, August 20th through Saturday, August 26th.
This one-week event eliminates Connecticut’s 6.35% sales tax on clothing and footwear costing less than $100 per item.
Additionally, new and used college textbooks are exempt from the state 6.35% sales tax for students who present a valid college ID at the time of purchase.
Since sales tax is calculated after the use of any coupons or discounts, if the final price is less than $100, the sale is exempt from taxes. Clothing or footwear under $100 put on layaway is also tax-free.
Please note: The threshold for this benefit has been substantially reduced from $300 in previous years, and will only apply to clothing and footwear that costs less than $100.
Tax Free Week was first enacted in 2000, and applies to most clothing and footwear purchases intended for everyday use.
Goods not covered under the program include, but are not limited to:
- Clothing or footwear specifically designed for athletic activities: football cleats, specialty boots for fishing, hiking, skiing and other activities, as well as wet suits, helmets and headbands, etc.
- Accessories: jewelry, handbags, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, watches, etc.
Please consult with your local retailer, or visit the Department of Revenue Services website for a full list of qualifying and non-qualifying items. Please feel free to contact me regarding this or any state or local issue at 800-842-1423 or email Carol.Hall@cga.ct.gov.