Connecticut is holding its annual weeklong sales tax holiday right now. It started Aug. 17 and runs through Aug. 23, 2025.
“Our annual sales tax holiday gives Connecticut consumers some extra savings during the busy back-to-school retail season,” Gov. Ned Lamont said in a news release. “I encourage everyone to take advantage of these savings and, as always, support our many locally owned small businesses.”
The Sales Tax-Free Week – now in its 26th year – usually coincides with back-to-school shopping in the fall, and officials said it’s an opportunity for parents to stock up on necessary clothing.
Here are some things to know.
What items will be tax-free?
The temporary tax exemption applies to clothing and footwear under $100. It applies to each eligible item individually, not the total amount, and there is no limit on how many items you can buy.
What wearable items will not be tax-free?
Jewelry, handbags, luggage, wallets and watches will not be tax-free. Athletic gear with a specific purpose, such as soccer cleats, are also not tax exempt this week. A detailed list of items is available here.
Can I buy things online and get them tax-free?
Yes, online purchases are included in tax-free week, but they have to be made and paid for during this week, the Department of Revenue Services says. When the items are actually delivered is not relevant to getting the tax-free discount.
Who benefits from this?
Experts say a Sales Tax-Free Week can bring modest relief to consumers. Those planning to buy shoes or clothing can see savings during this week by not having to pay Connecticut’s 6.35% sales tax on the goods. For example, if you are buying a $50 pair of shoes, the sales tax is normally just over $3. For a $99 pair of shoes, you would pay just over $6 in sales tax. So if you buy those shoes this week, you could save $3 or $6 respectively, compared to buying them outside of the tax-free week.
How does this help the economy? A Sales Tax-Free Week doesn’t necessarily boost the state’s economy. Many consumers simply shift their purchases from one week to another, rather than buying more than they had planned, policy experts say. So it may help a local store if they have significantly more shoppers come in, but it costs the state between $2 million and $3 million in lost tax revenue, officials said.