TAX & LICENSE
Florida residents enjoy living in a state that imposes very few taxes. The majority of revenue is derived from sales/use tax and intangible and corporate income tax. Florida has no personal income tax.
Florida Residency
You are considered a Florida resident when your true, fixed, and permanent home and principal establishment is in Florida. Filing a declaration of domicile, qualifying for homestead exemption, or registering to vote in Florida can establish residency. Obtaining a Florida drivers license only indicates an intent to establish residency.
Sales/Use Tax
Florida's sales tax rate is 6 percent. Each retail sale, admission charge, storage, use, or rental is taxable, along with some services. Some items are specifically exempt. Some counties impose an additional tax that can be called a local option tax, county tax, or local general sales tax. Unless specifically exempt, merchandise purchased out of state is subject to tax when brought into Florida within six months of the purchase date. This "use tax," as it is commonly called, is also assessed at the rate of 6 percent. You will need to complete an "out-of-state purchase return" form when filing and paying use tax unless the tax owed is less than $1.00.
Intangible Personal Property Tax
Florida repealed its intangible personal property tax effective January 1, 2007.
Ad Valorem (Property) Tax
If you purchase a home in Florida, you will pay ad valorem or "property" tax based on the taxable value of the property. Ad valorem taxes are assessed by the county property appraiser and collected annually by the tax collector's office. A $25,000 homestead exemption is available to homeowners who meet certain requirements. Certain exemptions are also available to blind persons and other physically-challenged residents. Contact the appropriate county property appraiser for details:
Tax Information Services
1379 Blountstown Highway
Tallahassee, FL 32304-2716
850-488-6800 or 800-352-3671
TDD 800-367-8331
www.myflorida.com/dor
Voter Registration
You may register to vote if you are a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years of age (you can pre-register at 17), and you are not a convicted felon unless your civil rights have been restored. You can apply to register to vote at any time. However, to vote in an election, you must be registered in the county where you live by the book closing date, usually the 29th day before each election. Absentee ballots can be requested from the County Supervisor of Elections by mail, telephone, or via website. Provide the last four digits of your Social Security Number, your name, residence address, date of birth, and voter identification number.
Registration is free of charge and permanent unless you change your name, address, telephone number, or political party affiliation. Federal and State laws require you to vote in the precinct of your residence. Registration in Florida is available in a number of convenient locations, including many public offices, driver's license testing sites, public libraries, and any Supervisor of Elections Office. You may also call the Division of Elections and request a registration application through the mail, or you can request an application online:
Florida Department of State
Division of Elections
107 West Gaines Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0250
850-245-6200
http://election.dos.state.fl.us
League of Women Voters
The League is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government. The organization assists voters in many ways while they work to increase the understanding of major issues.
National LWV
202-429-1965
www.lwv.org
LWV of Florida
850-224-2545
www.lwvfla.org
Pet Licensing
Licensing your pets not only contributes to public health but it can facilitate the return of a lost animal. Requirements can vary by jurisdiction and municipality. Contact your local animal control officer, either through municipal government or county government if you live in an unincorporated area, for details on fees and regulations in your area. Proof of rabies vaccinations is required for registration. Your local veterinarian will also be a valuable resource. The following organization provides a wealth of information and additional contacts:
Florida Humane Society
954-570-9507
www.floridahumanesociety.org
Hunting/Fishing Licenses
Hunting and fishing licenses are available through the county tax collector's offices and other agents like sporting good stores or retailers that sell outdoor equipment. Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission allows you to purchase your hunting or fishing license by dialing a toll-free number and using a credit card:
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
888-HUNT-FLORIDA
(888-486-8356)
888-FISH-FLORIDA
(888-347-4356)
http://myfwc.com/license_permit
These toll free numbers are available from anywhere in the United States or Canada. Within minutes, you will have a temporary license number that allows you to hunt in season and fish. The permanent license arrives in the mail within 48 hours. Hunter education is a prerequisite to a hunting license for any person born on or after June 1, 1975.