What Is the Resort Tax in Florida?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning a trip to Florida, you may have heard of the resort tax. This tax is a common feature in many tourist destinations, and Florida is no exception. In this article, we’ll explain what the resort tax is, how it works, and what it means for your vacation budget.

What Is the Resort Tax?

The resort tax, also known as the hotel bed tax or transient rental tax, is a special tax that’s charged on top of regular sales taxes for certain types of lodging. In Florida, this tax applies to short-term rentals such as hotels and vacation rentals.

How Does It Work?

The resort tax is typically a percentage of the total cost of your lodging. In Florida, the rate varies by county but can be as high as 6%. The revenue generated from the resort tax goes towards funding local tourism initiatives such as marketing campaigns and infrastructure improvements.

Who Has to Pay It?

Anyone who stays in a short-term rental in Florida is required to pay the resort tax. This includes both in-state and out-of-state visitors. The tax is usually collected by the lodging provider at the time of check-in or check-out.

Why Is It Important?

The resort tax plays an important role in supporting Florida’s tourism industry. By providing funding for marketing campaigns and infrastructure improvements, it helps to attract more visitors to the state. This benefits not only tourists but also local businesses that rely on tourism dollars to thrive.

What Are Some Exemptions?

Not all short-term rentals are subject to the resort tax in Florida. For example, if you’re staying in a long-term rental (more than six months), you won’t have to pay it. Additionally, some types of lodgings such as government-owned facilities and non-profit organizations may be exempt from the tax.

Conclusion

The resort tax is an important source of funding for Florida’s tourism industry. While it may add a bit of extra cost to your vacation budget, it’s ultimately a small price to pay for the benefits it provides. By understanding how the resort tax works and who has to pay it, you can plan your Florida vacation with confidence and avoid any surprises when it comes time to check out.