Sales Tax Free Week Starts Sunday!

August 13, 2026

Connecticut Sales Tax Free Week returns Sunday, August 16 through Saturday, August 22, giving everyone a chance to save on everyday essentials, especially with back-to-school shopping in full swing!

Eligible items purchased from Connecticut retailers and participating online retailers during that time are exempt from the state's 6.35% sales tax.

This year, my colleagues and I expanded the tax exemption through new legislation to include clothing, shoes, and backpacks priced under $300, helping families stretch their budgets as students prepare to head back to the classroom.

We have also permanently removed the sales tax on non-electronic school supplies such as pens, pencils, crayons, notebooks, paper, folders, binders, lunch boxes, and more.

What Items are Included in the Tax-Free Week?

Click here to view the complete list of tax-exempt and taxable items.

What's not included?

  • Specialized athletic or protective clothing and footwear
  • Jewelry, handbags, luggage, umbrellas
  • Watches, waders, wetsuits


Whether you're shopping for your children or picking up something for yourself, I hope you take advantage of these savings and keep a little more of your hard-earned money as you prepare for the new school year.
 
Learn more about sales tax free week