Sales Tax-Free Week Kicks Off Aug. 17

For more than 25 years, the state of Connecticut has offered families a week of sales tax exemptions as they prepare to send children back to school.

This year, sales tax-free week will run from Sunday, Aug. 17 through Saturday, Aug. 23.

During the week-long sales tax “holiday,” retail purchases of most clothing and footwear items priced under $100 are exempt from Connecticut’s 6.35% sales and use tax.

“Our annual sales tax holiday gives Connecticut consumers some extra savings during the busy back-to-school retail season,” Governor Ned Lamont said.

“I encourage everyone to take advantage of these savings and, as always, support our many locally owned small businesses.”

Tax Exemption

The sales tax exemption applies to purchases made from retailers located in Connecticut as well as from online retailers.

“This is a great opportunity to stock up on all those items you’ll need for the back-to-school season,” Connecticut Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Mark Boughton said.

“We encourage everyone to take advantage of these savings and shop local.”

The sales tax exemption applies to each eligible item costing under $100, regardless of how many a customer purchases.

“This is a great opportunity to stock up on all those items you’ll need for the back-to-school season.”

DRS Commissioner Mark Boughton

Discounted and sale items, coupon sales, and buy one, get one free promotions also qualify. 

There are some items that do not qualify for the sales-tax exemption, including clothing and footwear specifically designed for athletic activity or for protective use. 

Jewelry, handbags, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, watches, and similar items are also excluded. 

For additional information, including a list of individual items that are exempt or taxable, visit the state’s website.