Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday
Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday is practiced in many states with vast exposure to flooding, hurricanes, and tropical storms where sales tax is waived on certain items. Any day now, Florida House and Senate leaders are expected to work out a final tax package which is also inclusive of two additional tax holidays – “Back-to School” in August and the new “Freedom Week” in July. For reference, the first ever “Freedom Week” tax holiday provides a sales-tax exemption on tickets purchased for such things as live music, athletic contests, and in-theater movies which can be used later in the year. At the time of this writing, the expected dates for Florida’s disaster preparedness sales tax holiday are May 28 to June 6.
The sales tax-free eligible disaster items may include everything from flashlights, radios, waterproof backpacks, batteries costing $30 or less, tarps costing $50 or less, portable generators costing $750 or less, and hurricane preparedness kits. According to the organization, Hurricane Season 2021, one thing to keep in mind about the prices is these are per item. So, when you go and purchase batteries and it costs $50 in Florida, you can get other items such as a waterproof backpack sales tax free up to $50. If the item exceeds the set amount, for example, a generator costs $1,000. You will not pay sales tax on the first $750 but the remaining $250 will be taxed. Given the current Florida sales tax is about 6%, you will pay $15 in sales tax for the remaining $250 of the generator.
3-2-1 … The countdown to the June 1 to November 30, 2021 Hurricane season is on across the Space Coast and all of Florida. The disaster experts at Brevard Shutters & Accessories in Melbourne, FL are prepared to help you prepare for the potential of 31 named storms this season. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, it’s time to roll up the sleeves and install your hurricane shutters. We invite you to visit our on-site showroom where our skilled team members will assist you with factory-built products, materials, and superior service to ensure you get everything you need to get the job done right, the first time. If you prefer to leave it to the professionals, we’ll be ready for you with all of the industry’s latest and most dependable hurricane shutters in Brevard, Indian River, and Port St. Lucie Counties.
We are invested in the communities we serve. Exceeding our clients’ expectations and being a resource for all things storm related are commitments we take seriously. In addition to protecting your home with the Roll-up, Accordion, Bahama, Armor Screen, Colonial, Clear Panel, or other hurricane shutter protection we offer, check out some of the proactive measures you can take before there is a potential threat pending.
Free customized, emergency preparedness plans are available at FloridaDisaster.org
FloridaDisaster.org encourages all Floridians to have a predefined emergency plan. Each Florida county has a designated emergency management program, and residents, businesses, and visitors should also visit their county’s emergency management for the most up-to-date and locally significant information. An emergency or disaster may present unique challenges for people with access and functional needs. Follow this link Plan & Prepare | Florida Disaster to design a free, customized family, business, or special needs plan to keep your loved ones, property, and business safe in a crisis.
Essentials for Your Emergency Supply Kit
The American Red Cross recommends the following as a minimum in your disaster supply kit, yet you can find a free, very detailed checklist at Disaster Supply Kit Checklist | Florida Disaster.
- Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
- Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries (Similar item available in the Red Cross Store)
- Deluxe family first aid kit
- Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
- Multi-purpose tool
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
- Cell phone with chargers (Similar item available in the Red Cross Store)
- Family and emergency contact information
- Extra cash
- Emergency blanket
- Map(s) of the area
Stay Safe Florida!
There are many ways to protect your family, home, and business and all begin with effective preparation. Long gone are the days of masking tape windows and installing and removing plywood ‘shutters’ in the heat of summer while the storm is approaching. Whether your home or business is new or older, waterfront or urban, the benefits of hurricane shutters are abundant. As we say at Brevard Shutters & Accessories in Melbourne, FL, “Hurricane protection is just the beginning.” Home security, curb appeal, UV protection, lower utility bills, noise reduction, and peace of mind are other advantages. We hope you found this helpful and encourage you to apply the relevant information to keep your family and property safe. For the most peace of mind, call Brevard Shutters & Accessories today for a free estimate of professional design and installation or visit our showroom for the expert advice and quality parts and materials you’ll need to personally protect your home.
