Hurricane preparedness supplies are now exempt from Florida's state sales tax year-round, making it easier for residents to prepare before a storm threatens.
Why it matters: Buying emergency supplies before hurricane season peaks can save time, reduce last-minute shortages and lower costs.
The latest:
- Florida now offers a permanent sales tax exemption on many hurricane preparedness items.
- The change eliminates the need to wait for limited-time disaster preparedness tax holidays.
Eligible items include:
- Batteries.
- Portable generators up to 10,000 watts.
- Fire extinguishers.
- Smoke detectors.
- Carbon monoxide alarms.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunscreen.
- Life jackets.
- Waterproof tarps.
- Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits.
- Portable gas or diesel fuel cans up to five gallons.
Keep in mind:
- Local sales taxes may still apply to some purchases.
Bottom line: Hurricane season runs through Nov. 30, and emergency managers recommend preparing long before a storm is in the forecast. Florida's year-round tax exemption gives residents more flexibility to build or replenish emergency kits whenever they choose.
