For one week only Floridians will be able to get some of their hurricane supplies tax-free. June 1-7 is the first week of the hurricane season and Disaster Preparedness Week. It’s also the only time during this year’s hurricane season that certain supplies can be purchased without paying sales tax if the supplies meet certain criteria.
The tax-free offer is limited to certain items under specific financial thresholds. Items purchased online during the tax-free holiday are exempt.
Hurricane supply list
Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
Food – at least enough for 3 to 7 days, including non-perishable packaged or canned food / juice, foods for infants, the elderly, pets, snack foods, non-electric can opener, cooking tools / fuel, paper plates / plastic utensils
Blankets and pillows
Clothing – seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
Special Items – for babies, the elderly, pets
Toiletries – hygiene items
Moist wipes
Flashlight and batteries
Radio – Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
Cash – Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods.
Keys
Toys, Books and Games
Important documents – in a waterproof container, insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc. Document all valuables with videotape if possible.
Tools – keep a set with you during the storm
Vehicle fuel tanks filled
Sales tax is still applicable for rentals and repair of qualifying items, and items purchased in an airport, entertainment complex, theme park or hotel. Items priced over the qualifying amount are not eligible for the sales tax exemption.
Qualifying items include:
$10 and under:
- Reusable ice packs
$20 and under:
- Portable self-powered light sources including flashlights, lanterns, and candles
$25 and under:
- All gas and diesel fuel containers including LP gas and kerosene containers
$30 and under:
- Certain sizes of batteries and reusable batteries – sizes AA, AAA, C, D, 6-volt and 9-volt batteries included. Vehicle and boat batteries are excluded
- Food storage, non-electrical coolers, and ice chests
$50 and under:
- Tarps
- Plastic sheeting, drop cloths and other flexible waterproof sheeting
- Ground anchor system
- Tie-down kits
- Bungee cords
- Ratchet straps
- Battery, solar or hand-crank powered two-way and weather band radios
$750 and under:
- Portable generators
Items that are always sales tax exempt include unflavored, uncarbonated bottled water, canned food, first aid kits, baby food and formula, all prescription medication and most over the counter medication.
Related coverage
Forecasters agree: We’re in for stormy weather
Help is available during hurricanes
Tips for surviving hurricane season
Home, pool and yard preparation checklists
Prepare your boat for a hurricane
Re-entry tags needed to return after storms
Time to stock up for hurricane season
