Governor Ron DeSantis announced five tax-free periods in the state to support residents during different times of the year. During the month of August, there were 15 “tax-free” days for the purchase of school supplies, in celebration of the return to school. Now, a new holiday will begin to help prepare for hurricanes.
As Atlantic hurricane events reach their peak, Florida residents have a new opportunity to prepare without breaking the bank. From Saturday, August 24th to September 6ththe state will offer a tax-free holiday on a wide range of essential supplies to cope with potential storms.
This initiative seeks to ease the economic burden on families as they prepare for potential natural disasters, in a year where concern about hurricanes remains high.
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The concept of “Tax Free” is not a new concept for Floridians. In fact, it has been a recurring measure since its first implementation in 2006. However, the current context, marked by a summer of tension and concern, makes this exemption more relevant than ever. With five named storms and three hurricanes already recorded in 2024, the possibility of another phenomenon impacting the state is tangible.
Multiple inputs fall under the protection of tax free | Photo Fox 13 Tampa
In addition, a wider variety of tax-exempt items are included this year. The decision of the governor reflects an evolution in consumer needs and increased attention to comprehensive disaster preparedness.
What to buy during the hurricane tax-free holiday
The hurricane preparedness tax-free holiday covers a wide range of products that can be vital in the event of a disaster. Among the items that will be exempt from taxes are:
– Reusable ice packs that cost $20 or less
– Portable radios
– Fuel tanks and battery packs that cost $50 or less
– Food storage refrigerators that cost $60 or less.
Additionally, tarps costing up to $100 and portable generators up to $3,000 will also be tax-free during this period.
Portable generators will also be tax-free with some conditions. Photo WUSF
Pets are included
The list of exempt items also extends to pet necessities, including wet dog or cat food costing $10 or less, pet leashes up to $20, and cat litter costing up to $25.
Even pet beds costing up to $40 and over-the-counter animal medications. The exemption also covers bags of dry dog or cat food costing up to $100.
Pet beds and medicines made the list | Photo Amazon
The importance of being prepared
Hurricane season in Florida has always been an unavoidable reality for residents, so proper preparation can make the difference between a manageable situation and a crisis.
Meteorologists and state officials stress that being prepared is not simply a matter of convenience, but a vital necessity. Recent storms and hurricanes serve as a reminder that these events are not just abstract threats.
The Hurricane Preparedness Tax Holiday provides an excellent opportunity for Floridians to ensure they have all the necessary supplies without incurring additional costs.
With an estimated savings of $80 million in taxes, this program not only helps families be prepared, but also allows them to do so more affordably.
