House Republican Press Release

July 24, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. HETHERINGTON REMINDS NEW CANAANITES OF SALES TAX FREE WEEK

NEW CANAAN-Rep. John Hetherington today urged Connecticut residents to take advantage of the state's fifth annual "Sales Tax Free Week" from Sunday, August 17, through Saturday, August 23.

"Sales Tax Free Week coincides with end-of-summer sales and back-to-school shopping.  It's the perfect opportunity for both residents and tourists to be smart shoppers and save money on the items they need most at this time of year - clothing and footwear," Rep. Hetherington said.

For this week only, the increased exemption replaces the $50 standard exemption for clothing and footwear.

Hetherington said shoppers can also take steps to maximize their savings on purchases.  Because sales tax is applied after the use of any coupons or discounts, if the final price is less than $300, the sale is exempt from taxes.  Layaways and rentals of clothing or footwear under $300 are also tax-free during the tax exclusion week.  For purchases costing $300 or more, sales tax is calculated on the full cost of the item.

For answers to questions about the Connecticut Sales Tax Free Week for both consumers and retailers, the Department of Revenue Services (DRS) has posted details on its web site at www.ct.gov/drs.  The DRS web site also has links to other publications to help consumers understand the regular sales and use tax exemption on clothing and footwear.

Rep. Hetherington represents most of New Canaan and a part of Wilton.