Florida boaters and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy sales tax savings during the state’s new Freedom Week, which spans July 1-7.
Freedom Week is the second of three sales tax holidays in 2021. It follows Disaster Preparedness Week (May 28-June 6) and precedes the Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday (July 31-Aug. 9)
The Florida Legislature approved the trio of tax measures this spring, and Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill into law in May. DeSantis estimates the three programs will save Florida residents and businesses $168 million.
While Custom boat lifts designed, engineered, and manufactured by IMM Quality Boat Lifts will not fall under the tax exemption, we know our customers will appreciate the tax savings to stock up on boating accessories and fishing gear.
Tax breaks associated with Freedom Week are different than Florida’s other sales tax holidays. In most cases, retail stores will not collect state sales tax up to a specified amount. If the retail price exceeds that threshold, though, stores will collect tax on that additional amount.
Below is a full list of Freedom Week tax exemptions:
Boating and Water Supplies
Think about the items you bring on a boating trip. Most of those items will qualify for the tax exemption.
During Freedom Week, Florida will not collect the state sales tax on:
The first $25 of the sales price of:
- Snorkels
- Goggles
- Swimming masks
The first $50 of the sales price of:
- Safety flares
The first $75 of the sales price of:
- Life jackets
- Coolers
- Paddles
- Oars
The first $150 of the sales price of:
- Water skis
- Wakeboards
- Kneeboards
- Recreational inflatable water tubes or floats capable of being towed
The first $300 of the sales price of:
- Paddleboards
- Surfboards
The first $500 of the sales price of:
- Canoes
- Kayaks
Fishing Supplies
Boating and fishing run hand in hand. Florida is home to some of the world’s best fishing, from the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico to Lake Okeechobee and inland waterways.
During Freedom Week, Florida will not collect the state sales tax on:
The first $5 of the sales price of:
- Bait or fishing tackle if sold individually (or the first $10 if sold as a set)
The first $30 of the sales price of:
- Tackle boxes or bags
The first $75 of the sales price of:
- Rods and reels if sold individually (or the first $150 if sold as a set)
General Outdoor Supplies
Boating is an outdoor activity, so it’s important to be prepared for a day outdoors. Having the right accessories can make or break a day on the water.
During Freedom Week, Florida will not collect the state sales tax on:
The first $15 of the sales price of:
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- The first $30 of the sales price of:
Water bottles
- The first $50 of the sales price of:
- Hydration packs
- Bicycle helmets
The first $100 of the sales price of:
- Sunglasses
The first $200 of the sales price of:
- Binoculars
The first $250 of the sales price of:
- Outdoor gas or charcoal grills
- Bicycles
Camping Supplies
Boating and camping go hand in hand, especially for adventurers who enjoy the state’s inland habitat.
During Freedom Week, Florida will not collect the state sales tax on:
The first $30 of the sales price of:
- Camping lanterns
- Flashlights
The first $50 of the sales price of:
- Sleeping bags
- Portable hammocks
- Camping stoves
- Collapsible camping chairs
The first $200 of the sales price of:
- Tents
Additional Exemptions
Florida lawmakers included two other categories of sales tax exemptions as part of Freedom Week: events and sporting equipment.
For events, Freedom Week eliminates the state sales tax for events held July 1 through Dec. 31, 2021. Events include tickets or admissions to music, sporting, theater, and cultural events, as well as festivals and movies. The exemption also includes entry to museums and state parks. Season tickets and annual passes also are exempt if purchased during the six-month period. Additionally, sales tax won’t be charged at fitness clubs or athletic centers.
For sports equipment, the sales tax holiday applies to any item for individual or team sports selling for $40 or less. However, this exemption does not include clothing or footwear.
Freedom Week is intended to get Floridians back outdoors. If you’re looking for a custom boat lift, complete our REQUEST A QUOTE FORM.
