Just in time for the back-to-school season, shoppers this week can enjoy a reprieve from the state’s sales tax.
The state’s 23rd sales tax-free week started Sunday and runs through Saturday, Aug. 26.
Gov. Ned Lamont encouraged consumers to take advantage of the opportunity to save money while also supporting the state’s locally-owned retailers and small businesses.
“This tax-free holiday is scheduled at the perfect time to help families stretch their dollars during the back-to-school season, while also giving businesses an extra boost to their bottom line,” Lamont said.
This week, retail purchases of most clothing and footwear under $100 are exempt from the state’s sales and use tax. The exemption applies to each eligible item under $100, regardless of how many a customer buys in one transaction.
Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz encouraged residents to shop at local small businesses in particular, so dollars will be reinvested into their communities.
Chris Ball, associate professor of economics at Quinnipiac University, said anytime the government offers a break from taxes, consumers should take advantage of it, but he asserted that more should be done.
“Kudos to the state government for keeping up tax-free week,” Ball said. “I’m sure a number of Connecticut businesses will benefit from a short bump in demand and Connecticut residents will appreciate the relief, especially as they do final back-to-school shopping. That said, at most it will be a one-time blip in sales with little meaningful impact on the Connecticut economy.”
Instead, Ball asserted lawmakers should lower Connecticut taxes and regulations “broadly and permanently.”
This week, there are some items that are still taxable, such as sports uniforms. For a complete list of products and whether or not they are taxable or exempt, click here.
