#Middlebury #BacktoSchool #BBB #TaxFreeWeek
Connecticut’s tax-free holiday helps reduce costs
CROMWELL, Conn. – Some retailers offer back-to-school deals throughout the summer, but the Connecticut Better Business Bureau (BBB) says great prices get even better during Connecticut’s annual week-long “tax holiday.” The sales tax exclusion period will run from Sunday, Aug. 20, through Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017.
Temporary sales tax exemptions that week will apply to footwear and a wide assortment of clothing costing less than $100 per item. Best of all, it covers more than school clothing. The tax exemptions apply to sleepwear (nightgowns, pajamas), tennis clothing, formal gowns and typical school apparel as well as overcoats and summer and winter clothing for the whole family.
“We tend to think of tax-free week in terms of back-to-school purchases,” said Connecticut BBB spokesman Howard Schwartz. “The list of eligible apparel is both impressive and somewhat out of the ordinary. In essence, there is something for everybody.”
The National Retail Federation says the average family with elementary and high school-age children will spend a back-to-school average of almost $690. That can include electronic devices such as computers and other school-related gadgets. The tax holiday does not cover school supplies, but there are ways to buy what your children need for school without breaking the bank.
Before you start shopping, Connecticut BBB offers these tips to help keep costs under control:
Check your home’s inventory – You may have some supplies left over from last year. Create a “must buy” list of typical back-to-school purchases and try to stick to it. Try to avoid impulse buys.
Create a budget – Once you know what you have to buy, look for specials on notebooks, pens and folders at discount stores.
Sign up for alerts – Your favorite retailers can send you sales alerts or post coupons on their websites or social media pages. As good as they look, it is always worth it to compare prices with their competitors.
Look for stores that offer student discounts – Retailers are anxious to clear the shelves to make room for their new fall fashion inventory, and that means more choices for consumers at lower prices.
Shop at home – You can save money with free shipping for online purchases. Before submitting your order, check terms, conditions, limitations and exchange policies.
You will find details about Connecticut’s tax-free week from the Department of Revenue Services, as well as a list of eligible clothing and footwear that will be tax exempt here.
