State Retailers Prepare for Connecticut’s Sales-Tax-Free Week

Connecticut’s annual sales-tax-free week gets underway this weekend, running August 20-26, and retailers throughout the state are ready to welcome shoppers who would like to take advantage of the savings provided by the State of Connecticut.

Under state law, sales-tax-free week in Connecticut applies only to clothing and footwear priced up to $100. During the week, many retailers offer additional clothing and footwear discounts, resulting in even more savings for shoppers.

Among the items eligible for purchase that will not be subject to state sales tax during the week are blouses, dresses, jeans, leotards, rain jackets, hiking boots, hats, jogging suits, shirts, sleepwear, slippers, sneakers, swim suits, socks and leg warmers, and boots.

A full list of eligible items is available on the website of the state Department of Revenue Services, at https://portal.ct.gov/DRS/Sales-Tax/Examples-of-Clothing-and-Footwear-That-are-Exempt-During-Sales-Tax-Free-Week. Only those items under $100 are tax-free.

“Connecticut retailers work diligently throughout the year to be responsive to their customers and provide outstanding customer service. Retailers are actively involved in their communities, and play a pivotal role in the strength and vibrancy of the Connecticut economy,” said Timothy G. Phelan, president of the Connecticut Retail Network (CRN). “Tax free week provides an opportunity for customers to save some money on purchases, which can be tremendously helpful especially for families preparing for the upcoming school year.”

The retail industry is among Connecticut's leading employers, an essential and fully integrated segment of the state's economy. Data indicates that Connecticut has roughly 41,900 retail establishments, supporting more than 470,000 jobs. Overall, the retail industry produces approximately 14 percent of Connecticut's total GDP. The overwhelming majority of retailers are small businesses, with more than 98 percent of all retail companies employing fewer than 50 people. More than nine in ten retailers operate in just one location.

“Connecticut has a vibrant retail community, at the heart of business activity all across the state's 169 cities and towns. That is why a healthy and vibrant retail industry delivers a powerful impact across our economy,” Phelan said.

The Connecticut Retail Network, formerly the Connecticut Retail Merchants Association, is a statewide trade association that represents Connecticut retailers at the State Capitol and in the marketplace. The association includes some of the world's largest retailers as well as the state's dynamic Main Street merchants. To learn more about CRN, visit www.ctretailnetwork.com