Sen. Carlo Leone Welcomes Tax Free Week

State Senator Carlo Leone (D-Stamford, Darien) welcomed the return of Connecticut’s annual Tax Free Week on Monday, just in time for the back-to-school season. From Aug. 19 to 25, individual items of clothing and footwear that cost less than $300 will be entirely exempt from state sales tax.

“Tax free week offers Stamford and Darien families a great opportunity to save on back-to-school shopping,” said Senator Leone. “With our economy still rebounding, this tax-free holiday will help families with fixed household budgets to get the best value for their buck, while also providing a boost to local merchants during an important time of the year.”

Connecticut consumers are expected to save as much as $7.5 million in the coming week. It is estimated that the average family will spend around $700 on back-to-school shopping.

Items valued at more than $300 but discounted to less than that amount through sales, coupons, and similar merchant promotions will still qualify for the tax holiday. Sports equipment, specialty clothing, jewelry and accessories will not be eligible for the exemption.

Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Kevin Sullivan said, “Governor Malloy and I see this as a great opportunity for consumers to stretch their tight household budgets and make the kind of purchases that are always necessary at this time of year. In addition, this is a good shot in the arm for our merchants—especially those that help attract shoppers who can maximize the tax exemption through discounted pricing.”

More information on Sales Tax Free Week can be found at the Department of Revenue Services website.