Tax-Free Shopping Begins Next Week In Norwalk

Connecticut’s annual holiday from the sales tax for clothes and shoes will be Sunday, Aug. 18, through Saturday, Aug. 24.

During this week, individual items of clothing and footwear that cost less than $300 are exempt from state sales tax – other than sports equipment, specialty clothing, jewelry and accessories. Store sales, catalog and online purchases, purchases on layaway and rentals also are exempt. Normally, the exemption is for clothing costing less than $50. Beyond that, the state's 6.35 percent sales tax usually is charged. 

“Gov. (Dannel) 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," said Kevin Sullivan, commissioner of the state Department of Revenue Services, in a statement. "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.”

For more details on the clothing and rules, visit this website. 

State Rep. Thomas O’Dea Jr. (R-125) is urging local residents to take advantage of the savings.

“With the summer winding down, many of you are likely getting your families ready to go back to school," O'Dea, who represents Wilton and New Canaan, said in a statement. "And during these tough economic times, the back-to-school bill can be especially overwhelming.”

Tax-free purchases are expected to save consumers as much as $7.5 million statewide, state officials said. On average, it is estimated families will spend nearly $700 on back-to-school purchases this year.

The tax holiday, an annual event that began in 2000, is mandated by state law and held each year from the third Sunday in August to the following Saturday to provide savings to families preparing for the new school year.

For more information on tax-free week, check the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services website or call 860-297-5962.

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