State Representative Mitch Bolinsky reminds residents that Tax Free Week begins Sunday, August 21, and ends Saturday, August 27.

This one-week event eliminates Connecticut's 6.35 percent sales tax on clothing and footwear costing less than $100. Residents should also note that the benefit has been substantially reduced from previous years. Since sales tax is calculated after the use of any coupons or discounts, if the final price is less than $100, the sale is exempt from taxes. Clothing or footwear under $100 put on layaway is also tax-free.

Additionally, new and used college textbooks are exempt from the state 6.35 percent sales tax for students who present a valid college ID at the time of purchase.

Tax Free Week was first enacted in 2000, and applies to most clothing and footwear purchases intended for everyday use.

Goods not covered under the program include, but are not limited to: clothing or footwear specifically designed for athletic activities (football cleats, specialty boots for fishing, hiking, skiing, and other activities, as well as wet suits, helmets, and headbands, etc) and accessories (jewelry, handbags, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, watches, etc).

Visit ct.gov/drs for details on qualifying and nonqualifying items.