Still Have Back-to-School Shopping to Do? Tax Free Week is Almost Here

The following was submitted by Lawrence Cook, press aide for State Sen. Dante Bartolomeo.

With less than a week remaining before the kickoff of Connecticut’s annual sales tax holiday, State Senator Dante Bartolomeo today encouraged her constituents to take advantage of the savings in effect beginning this Sunday, August 18th through Saturday, August 24th.

“As the mother of two school-age boys, I participate in the routine of buying new clothes every August,” Bartolomeo said. “This is a great opportunity for families to save some money while supporting local retailers at the same time.”

Ever since it was established in 2000, families have looked forward to the week-long sales tax holiday. It takes place as parents are in the process of addressing their back-to-school shopping needs, and is much-welcomed relief that helps them get the most value for their dollar.

During the week of August 18-24, individual items of clothing and footwear that cost less than $300 will be entirely exempt from the state’s sales tax.

The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services website features a list of examples of tax-exempt items, including: shirts, jeans, socks, gloves, hats, rain jackets and sneakers.

Families can save even more by planning ahead and comparing prices between stores using sales circulars in Sunday papers and the stores’ websites. Consumers should also keep an eye out for coupons as items valued at more than but discounted to under $300 with sales, coupons, and similar merchant promotions will also be exempt from state sales tax.

More information on the sales tax holiday can be found at the state Department of Revenue Services website at www.ct.gov/drs.

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