For Immediate Release: Friday, August 12, 2011
Hartford — Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Kevin B. Sullivan today reminded shoppers and retailers to take advantage of the state’s annual Sales Tax Free Shopping Week August 21 through August 27. This year’s Sales Tax Holiday is projected to save shoppers as much as $7.2 million.
Celebrating its eleventh year, the seven-day holiday exempts individual items of clothing and footwear priced under $300 from the sales tax. Exempt clothing and shoes are generally considered essential day-to-day wear. Special clothing or footwear primarily designed for athletic activity or protective use, accessories, and jewelry do not qualify for this exemption.
Commissioner Sullivan said, “This is a great opportunity for back-to-school shoppers and we expect it to be a big hit this year. It’s also a good way to help Connecticut’s retailers attract customers and put more money back into the state economy. Because sales tax is applied to merchandise after the use of any coupons or discounts, shoppers get the added advantage of all the sales, store discounts, and coupons retailers offer that bring the cost of items down below $300.”
In addition to purchases shoppers take home, items placed on layaway and rentals of clothing or footwear under $300 are also tax-free during the Sales Tax Holiday Week. For purchases of items costing $300 or more, sales tax is calculated on the full cost of the item.
For answers to questions about the Connecticut Sales Tax Holiday Week, DRS has posted details on its website at www.ct.gov/drs. The DRS web site also has links to other publications to help consumers understand the regular sales and use tax exemption on clothing and footwear. Individuals may also call 1-800-382-9463 (for in-state calls outside the Greater Hartford Area) or 860-297-5962 (from anywhere).
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Media inquiries only should be directed to the communications office at (860) 297-5610 or sarah.kaufman@po.state.ct.us.
