Floridians can look forward to significant savings this summer with the return of the ‘Freedom Month’ sales tax holiday. Running from July 1 through July 31, 2024, this initiative, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, aims to ease the financial burden on families by eliminating sales tax on a wide range of recreational items and activities.
The ‘Freedom Month’ sales tax holiday encompasses a variety of items and services, making it easier for families to enjoy their summer without worrying about additional costs. From tickets to concerts and sports events to essential outdoor gear, the tax break covers a broad spectrum of summer essentials.
Among the key highlights, families can benefit from tax-free purchases on day-use admissions to Florida State Parks, camping supplies, boating and water activity equipment, and outdoor sports gear. This initiative not only encourages outdoor activities and tourism within the state but also supports local businesses and entertainment venues.
Events held from July 1 to July 31, including concerts, theatrical performances, and sports events, are also included in the tax exemption. This means tickets purchased for these events during the Freedom Month period will be free from sales tax, offering substantial savings for those looking to enjoy Florida’s vibrant summer event calendar.
Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of this tax holiday in promoting family activities and supporting the state’s economy. “The Freedom Month Sales Tax Holiday provides an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy the numerous recreational activities Florida has to offer, all while saving money,” he stated.
In addition to recreational items, the tax holiday applies to certain admissions and memberships, including those for fitness centers and gymnasiums. This broad scope ensures that Floridians can take advantage of the tax break in various aspects of their summer plans.
The Freedom Month initiative reflects Florida’s commitment to making recreational activities more accessible and affordable for all residents. By removing the sales tax on a wide range of items, the state hopes to encourage more families to explore the outdoors, attend events, and engage in physical activities, contributing to a healthier and more active community.
Additional Savings Details:
Boating and water activity supplies:
- Sales price of $25 or less: Goggles, Swimming masks, Snorkels
- Sales price of $35 or less: Inflatable chairs, Pool floats, Pool toys, Recreational pool tubes
- Sales price of $50 or less: Safety flares
- Sales price of $75 or less: Coolers, Oars, Life jackets, Paddles
- Sales price of $150 or less: Inflatable recreational water tubes and floats capable of being towed, Kneeboards, Wakeboards, Water skis
- Sales price of $300 or less: Paddleboards, Surfboards
- Sales price of $500 or less: Canoes, Kayaks
Camping supplies:
- Electric Scooters (New for 2024)
- Sales price of $30 or less: Camping lanterns, Flashlights
- Sales price of $50 or less: Camping stoves, Collapsible camping chairs, Portable hammocks, Sleeping bags
- Sales price of $200 or less: Tents
Fishing supplies:
- Sales price of $5 or less if sold individually or $10 or less if multiple items are sold together: Bait, Fishing tackle
- Sales price of $30 or less: Tackle Bags, Tackle boxes
- Sales price of $75 or less if sold individually or $150 or less if sold as a set: Reels, Rods (Note: Excludes supplies used for commercial fishing purposes)
Residential pool supplies:
- Sales price of $100 or less: Covers, Lights, Filters, Nets, Individual residential pool and spa replacement parts
- Sales price of $150 or less: Residential pool and spa chemicals when purchased by an individual
- Sales price of $500 or less: Vehicles with two or fewer wheels, with or without a seat or saddle for the rider, which are equipped to be propelled by an electric motor and which weigh less than 75 pounds, are less than 2 feet wide, and are designed for a maximum speed of less than 35 miles per hour
General outdoor supplies:
- Sales price of $15 or less: Insect repellent, Sunblock, Sunscreen
- Sales price of $30 or less: Water bottles
- Sales price of $50 or less: Bicycle helmets* (*Bicycle helmets marketed for use by youth are always exempt from sales tax), Hydration packs
- Sales price of $100 or less: Sunglasses (except prescription** (**Prescription eyeglasses are always exempt from sales tax)
- Sales price of $200 or less: Binoculars
- Sales price of $250 or less: Outdoor gas or charcoal grills
- Sales price of $500 or less: Bicycles
For more information and a comprehensive list of tax-free items, Floridians can visit the Florida Department of Revenue’s website. Don’t miss this chance to maximize your summer fun while enjoying significant savings during Florida’s ‘Freedom Month’ sales tax holiday.
