Connecticut’s Sales Tax-Free Week runs from Saturday, Aug. 17 through Friday, Aug. 23, 2026. During this week, most clothing and footwear priced under $100 per item are exempt from the state’s 6.35% sales tax.
The exemption applies to both in-person and online purchases as long as the items are paid for during the tax-free period.
CONNECTICUT — Bargain hunters and back-to-school shoppers, take note: Connecticut’s annual Sales Tax-Free Week is back from Aug. 17 to Aug. 23, giving residents a break on the state’s 6.35% sales tax for most clothing and footwear priced under $100 per item.
This isn’t just about school uniforms and sneakers—it’s a week-long chance to update your wardrobe, stock up on seasonal basics, and keep more cash in your pocket.
List of Tax-Free Items in Connecticut For 2026
Eligible items include most clothing and footwear under $100 per piece. Some examples:
Calculate Your 2026 COLA Increase →- Shirts, pants, jeans, skirts, dresses, suits, and sweaters
- Coats, jackets, robes, and sleepwear
- Shoes, sandals, and boots
- Belts and gloves
There’s no limit on the number of eligible items you can buy in a single purchase—just make sure each item is individually priced under $100.
What’s NOT included?
Some items remain taxable even if they’re under the $100 threshold:
- Specialized sports or protective gear — such as football pads, ski pants, cleats, wetsuits, and goggles
- Accessories — including jewelry, handbags, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, and watches
- Rentals — any rented clothing or footwear
- Anything priced at $100 or more — the full price will be taxed
The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services posts a full list of qualifying and excluded items, which can help you avoid checkout surprises.
How the tax-free week works
- Online counts too: Eligible items ordered and paid for during Aug. 17–23 qualify, even if they arrive later.
- No total purchase limit: Your receipt total can be more than $100; the rule applies item-by-item.
- Coupons can help: If a retailer’s discount brings an item under $100, it qualifies.
- Plan ahead: Popular back-to-school sizes and styles tend to sell out quickly.
For every $100 you spend on qualifying items, you save $6.35—before stacking retailer sales or outlet discounts. That’s why many shoppers plan major purchases during this week, whether at Westfarms Mall in West Hartford, The Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk in South Windsor, or Clinton Premium Outlets.
“Tax-Free Week is a great opportunity for families to prepare for the school year while supporting local businesses,” the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services says.
Mark your calendar: Aug. 17–23, 2026 is your chance to score some smart savings across the Nutmeg State—just remember the $100-per-item limit and shop early for the best deals.
