Tax-Free Week – Just in Time for Back to School

By: Senator John A. Kissel

If you plan to do back-to-school clothing shopping, you might want to wait until the week of August 19th for Connecticut’s 18th Annual Tax-Free Week.The week-long holiday from the state’s 6.35% sales tax runs through August 25th and includes items of everyday clothing and footwear that cost less than $100.

Tax-Free Week was enacted in 2000 and has become a popular time for back-to-school shopping and those getting a head start of the holidays by putting clothing and shoes on layaway. The tax-free status also applies to clothing and shoes bought on the internet and clothing rentals made during the week.

Not all clothing and shoe purchases qualify for tax-free status. Some of these include:

• Athletic gear and uniforms,
• Specialty shoes like cleats, ballet, and bowling
• Accessories like jewelry, handbags, and backpacks

The tax-free status applies to each individual piece of clothing that costs less than $100, the savings can really add up for those buying several items.

Many retailers anticipate tax-free week and set up sales to help you maximize the savings. If you have questions, or would like to take a list of exempt and non-exempt items with you when you shop, you can find a list of items online at www.ct.gov/drs . You can also call the Department of Revenue Services with any questions at (800) 382-9463.

So if you’re planning on heading out and getting the kids ready for back to school take advantage of these savings, August 19th through August 25th.