SHOP LOCAL for Back to School!! Sales Tax Free Week August 20-26

Dear friends and neighbors,

With inflation causing prices to rise, we are paying more for everything we purchase, including food, clothing, and fuel, and saving money is more important than ever.

That being said, with school only a few weeks away for some students, I want to remind you to take advantage of the upcoming “Tax Free Week,” which runs from Sunday, August 20 through Saturday, August 26.

Now is a great time to save on all of your kids’ back-to-school wear, both in stores and online.

This one-week event eliminates Connecticut’s 6.35 percent sales tax on clothing and footwear costing less than $100 per item. Since sales tax is calculated after the use of any coupons or discounts, if the final price per item is less than $100, the sale is exempt from taxes. Clothing or footwear under $100 put on layaway during this week are also tax-free.

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., and accessories like jewelry, handbags, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, watches, etc.

Please consult with your local retailer, or contact the Department of Revenue Services for a list of qualifying and non-qualifying items.

I hope you find this information helpful.