Understanding Florida's Sales Tax System

Florida's sales tax structure consists of a statewide sales tax rate and an additional, county-level tax known as the Discretionary Sales Surtax. This calculator helps you determine the total tax by combining both rates for the specific county where your purchase is made.

How Florida Sales Tax Works

• Statewide Sales Tax: The general state sales tax rate in Florida is 6%. This rate applies to the sale of most tangible personal property, admissions, and some services.
• Discretionary Sales Surtax: Most Florida counties levy a local option tax, officially called the Discretionary Sales Surtax. This surtax varies by county and can range from 0.5% to 2.0%. The funds from this surtax are used to pay for local government services and infrastructure projects. The rate in this calculator is based on the combined county surtax rates.

The total sales tax is the sum of the 6% state tax and the local surtax. For the most current and detailed information on tax rates, you can visit the Florida Department of Revenue's website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the total sales tax in Miami-Dade County?

Miami-Dade County has a 1% discretionary sales surtax. When combined with the 6% state sales tax, the total sales tax rate in Miami-Dade is 7%.

Are groceries taxable in Florida?

Generally, no. Most grocery food items, such as bread, milk, meat, and vegetables, are exempt from sales tax in Florida. However, this exemption does not apply to "prepared foods" (like a hot rotisserie chicken) or certain food items like candy, soft drinks, and dietary supplements, which are typically taxable. For a complete guide, refer to the Florida Department of Revenue's publication on Sales and Use Tax on Food and Beverages.

Do tourists pay sales tax in Florida?

Yes. Sales tax applies to all taxable goods and services sold in Florida, regardless of whether the buyer is a resident or a tourist.