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Ready For Back-To-School Shopping? It's Tax-Free Week In Connecticut

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. — Just in time for back-to-school shopping, it's time for the “Sales Tax Free Week” across Connecticut — saving residents from the 6.35 percent sales tax on a number of items. 

The shelves at the Darien Sport Shop are stocked with back-to-school clothing.

The shelves at the Darien Sport Shop are stocked with back-to-school clothing.

Photo Credit: File

The special shopping event, which runs from Sunday, Aug. 20, to Saturday, Aug. 26, according to the state Department of Revenue Services.  

Items of clothing and footwear that cost less than $100 each — calculated after coupons or discounts — are exempt from the sales tax. That applies to sleepwear, formal gowns, coats, summer and winter clothing.

Clothing or footwear costing under $100 put on layaway is also tax-free.

New and used college textbooks are exempt from the state 6.35 percent sales tax for students who present a valid college ID at the time of purchase as well.

Items not covered include clothing or footwear for athletic activities as well as such accessories as jewelry, handbags, and watches.  

This is the 17th year that the state has offered a sales tax holiday week. 

Retail sales are an important part of the economy, including the jobs involved. “While the research is mixed on whether there is actually more business done over time due to sales tax holidays, it’s a helpful way to promote retail shopping — all of which employ people that support the sales,” said Revenue Services Commissioner Kevin B. Sullivan. “The economic boost more than makes up for the sales tax holiday.”

This year, the state expects about $4.1 million in sales and use tax exemptions during the sales tax holiday week.

Click here for a list of items that exempt and non-exempt from sales tax during the event. 

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