Florida's sales tax system has two main components: a statewide rate and local discretionary sales surtaxes imposed by individual counties. This means the final tax rate can vary depending on where you make your purchase. Our Florida Sales Tax Calculator makes it simple to determine the total tax on a purchase. By entering the pre-tax amount and the local surtax rate for the specific county, you can quickly find out the total sales tax and the final price you'll pay for goods and services.
How to Use the Florida Sales Tax Calculator
Figuring out the sales tax on your purchase is a quick process:
- Enter the Pre-tax Amount: Input the price of the item or service before any taxes are applied.
- Enter the Local Surtax Rate: Input the "discretionary sales surtax" rate for the county where the purchase is being made. You can find this on your county's government website.
- Calculate Your Total: Click the "Calculate" button to see the sales tax amount and the final, out-the-door price of your purchase.
Understanding Florida's Sales Tax System
Like many states, Florida's total sales tax is a combination of a state-level tax and local additions.
The Statewide Rate
The general state sales tax rate for Florida is 6%. This rate applies to the sale, rental, use, or storage of most tangible personal property, as well as some services. This 6% rate forms the baseline for every taxable transaction in the state.
Discretionary Sales Surtax
In addition to the 6% state tax, most Florida counties impose a local option tax called the "discretionary sales surtax." These surtaxes are used to fund local projects like infrastructure, transportation, and schools. The rates vary by county and are approved by voters. The county surtax rate typically ranges from 0.5% to 1.5%.
The surtax is generally applied to the first $5,000 of the sales price of any single item of tangible personal property. This means that for a very expensive item, like a car or a boat, the local surtax would only be calculated on the first $5,000 of its price, while the 6% state tax applies to the entire price. Our calculator simplifies this by applying the rate to the full amount, which is accurate for the vast majority of everyday purchases.
What Is Subject to Sales Tax in Florida?
Florida's sales tax is generally applied to the sale of tangible personal property and a specific list of services.
Common Taxable Items:
- Most physical goods, such as clothing, electronics, and furniture.
- Restaurant meals and prepared food.
- Admissions to events and amusement parks.
- Commercial real property rentals.
Common Non-Taxable Items:
- Most Groceries: Basic food items like bread, milk, and produce are generally exempt. However, prepared foods, candy, and soft drinks are typically taxable.
- Prescription Drugs and Medical Items: Most medications and medical devices prescribed by a doctor are exempt.
- Most Services: Unlike some states, Florida does not tax most services. Professional services like legal advice, accounting, and healthcare are not taxed.
- Water: Un-carbonated and unflavored bottled water is exempt from sales tax.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Sales Tax
How do I find my county's surtax rate?
The Florida Department of Revenue maintains an up-to-date list of the discretionary sales surtax rates for every county. You can find this information on their official website. The rate is determined by the county where the sale takes place or where the item is delivered.
Do I have to pay Florida sales tax on a car I buy out of state?
Yes. If you buy a vehicle out of state but plan to register it in Florida, you will be required to pay Florida's 6% state sales tax, plus any applicable local surtax based on your county of residence. You may be able to get a credit for any sales tax you already paid to the other state.
Is sales tax charged on shipping and handling?
In Florida, shipping and handling charges are generally considered part of the sales price and are subject to sales tax if the item being shipped is taxable. If the shipping charge is stated separately on the invoice and the buyer has the option to pick up the item themselves, the shipping charge may be exempt.
Are there any sales tax holidays in Florida?
Yes, the Florida Legislature often approves several sales tax holidays throughout the year. The most common is a "Back-to-School" holiday in late summer, where clothing, school supplies, and computers under a certain price are exempt from sales tax. There are also frequently holidays for disaster preparedness supplies and tools.