tax refund usa tourist florida

How to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist, Resident for Shopping ? FAQs

America is one of the best places to buy clothes, electronics, etc. You get the best value for the money spent. If you are a tourist from Asia or Europe, you will find the prices much cheaper when you buy things in the US at outlet malls.

Many are not aware that you may be able to get tax refunds as a tourist if you buy in some states like Texas in the US. In this article, we will cover all the details on how to get tax refunds, the requirements and conditions, and address some commonly asked FAQs.

Do you get a Tax Refund for Shopping in the US at Malls or Online Stores?

It depends on the US state you do shopping in. If you shop in certain states like Texas, you will likely get a tax refund for your purchases in the US as a tourist. The US Government or US Tourism websites do not have a published list that says that you get a Sales Tax Refund when you buy things in a certain US state.

It is unclear if you would get a tax refund if you buy stuff online. You need to check with the online retailer on this, as this depends on where you ship your goods and how the seller will charge you state tax. Also, even if you get a refund, there are way too many conditions to get a decent refund back. We will look at these details in later sections of the article.

Tax Refund: State Sales Tax vs. Federal Sales Tax?

In America, there is no Federal Sales Tax (national-level sales tax). When you buy goods in the US, the respective State or Local Government charges you State Sales Tax . The US Federal Govt., usually imposes customs duty or tariffs on the federal level and is not charged directly to the end consumer.

The sales tax you pay for shopping in the US goes to the respective state govt. or local govt and does not go to the federal government. So, you usually get the State Sales Tax or Local Govt. Sales tax as a refund if you are exporting the goods outside of the US.

Below is a reference image from Taxfoundation.org that shows approximate State tax by the state for your reference.

Sales Taxes in the US by State for Year 2023

As you would usually get the State Tax as a refund, it is important for you to review the respective tax you paid for you to get an estimate. You can see that in the purchase receipt. There will be a section that clearly tells as Sales Tax. That is nothing but the State Sales Tax.

Below is one of the purchases in Houston, Texas, done by me for your reference. You can see the Sales Tax highlighted to get an idea.

Sales Tax Receipt for Refund in US as Tourist Sample

The US Government does not refund Sales Tax to Visitors

US Customs and Border Protection has clarified on the CBP website that says the below:

“The United States Government does not refund sales tax to foreign visitors. Sales tax charged in the United States is paid to individual states, not the Federal government …” . – US Customs and Border Protection(CBP) Website

It means that the US Federal Government on a country level does not refund any sales tax and you need to check with the respective US State, where you made the purchase from.

Check the below screenshot from the US CBP Website that clarifies the tax refund status from the US Govt. side.

US Sales Tax Refund Clarification by CBP Website - 2023

Hence, it is important to be clear that the Sales Tax refund completely depends on the US State, where you purchased your goods as a visitor and has nothing to do with the US Govt. or Federal Govt. We will look at some states and requirements to get a tax refund in the next section.

Requirements to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist or Resident

The requirements to get a tax refund varies by the US State. Also, they are slightly tricky to get a decent refund, as they force you to purchase more at a single store. Most of the requirements or conditions are common for foreigners and US Citizens. The only difference is where they can claim a tax refund and when.

Below are the general requirements for Tax Refund for Tourists

Minimum Amount : Depending on the state, there is a minimum amount of tax you need to have per receipt or purchase from a brand store or outlet store. In Texas, you need to have a minimum of $12 tax per receipt or combined receipts from the same brand stores. Technically, in Texas with an 8.25% sales tax, you need to purchase for at least $150 USD in a single store or brand outlet to be eligible for the refund.
Original Receipts : You need to submit original receipts at the Tax refund counter. They do not accept duplicate, photocopy, or reprint sales receipts. You need to submit the first original receipt that is printed. No digital or e-mail receipts are accepted unless it is an online purchase item from a brand store and if the receipt has the delivery address of the goods in that state. You need the packaging slip of delivery for online purchases.
Within 30 days: You need to have the purchase done within 30 days from the day of your international travel or departure date from the US.
International Travel : You get a refund only if you are traveling outside of the US, and the items you buy will stay outside of the US. Technically exporting it to another country. That’s why they ask for the original receipt and take it for a refund. It means that the sale is final in the US, and there are no returns for the same goods you bought here in the US.
Physical Inspection : You need to show your item purchased for physical inspection and it has to be in new and unused condition with all the tags.
Passport, I-94 / Entry Stamp : You need to show your Visa/ Passport and I-94 with an entry stamp on it if holding a foreign passport.
Departure Information / Flight Tickets : You need to show your international departure info or flight ticket itinerary. For US citizens, you need to show the boarding pass to get a tax refund.
Items should Depart US & State: The items purchased in the US must be taken with you and should depart the state you purchased in and America.
Food or Services: No refund for food or services purchased.
Participating Stores: You get Tax Refund only if you purchase goods from the participating stores. This depends on the state as well. In Texas, they claim the stores’ list is over 6,500+ stores…but watch out for the brands. I purchased from a few brands that were not eligible for a refund, such as Abercrombie & Fitch.
Instant Cash : If you want instant cash, it is a 50% processing fee for a tax refund.
Check / PayPal : If you want a check or can get a refund to PayPal, then it is 35% of the tax refund. Also you may also be charged $4 USD for every single store or brand purchase.
Refund Locations: Both US Citizens and non-US citizens can claim tax refunds at all major international airport terminals. They usually would have a Tax refund desk at these locations. Check the airport for the details on the terminal. Also, if you are a non-US citizen, then you can even claim tax refunds at certain mall locations in the state. Check the state website for the exact locations in a state. For example, for Texas, here are the refund locations .
Tax Refund Policies: Tax refund policies can vary by state, and there is no standard sales tax percentage set as well. You should check the Sales Tax and Tax Refund policies in that respective state before you shop to ensure you get a tax refund. For instance, if you shop in Delaware, there is no sales tax, so no refund. For policies in Texas, check out Requirements for Sales Tax Refund in Texas

Tips for Tax Refund as a Tourist or Resident in the US

Overall, a Tax refund is definitely a good thing, if you are doing a lot of shopping and taking it home. The only downside is that you have to give the original receipt of purchase. I did shopping for over $900 USD, but could not get a sizable tax refund as I did not know all of these facts and conditions. If you plan it ahead of time, you may be able to get a decent tax refund. Below are some tips

Duplicate Receipt / Re-prints : When you buy your item, request a duplicate receipt or re-print of the receipt. You can use this duplicate receipt for a warranty in your home country or international location.
Take a Photo of Original Receipt: Take a picture of the original receipt and if requested by the warranty location outside of the US, then you can use the photo and duplicate the receipt.
Buy maximum at One Brand Store: Make sure you pick a few brands and do shopping in those brands’ outlets so that you meet the minimum requirement of a Tax refund. If not, you will not be eligible for a tax refund, as you will miss out on the minimum. I did not get anything as I bought in multiple brands and they were less than $150 purchase per store, so I was not meeting the minimum amount of tax refund in Texas.
Register for Warranty: If you are buying an electronic item and if there is an option to register online, register for warranty, when you have the original receipt.

Common FAQs

We have addressed some of the commonly asked questions below.

The sales tax refunds are paid by the respective State Govt. or local Govt. where you made the purchases. It is a state sales tax refund and not a Federal govt refund. IRS does not give any sales tax refunds.

Yes, your visa status does not matter for tax refunds. All visa types are eligible, including H1B, L1, F1, etc. Anyone traveling outside of the US is eligible for a tax refund. All the tax refund conditions described in the above article apply to everyone.

Yes, US Citizens are also eligible for a tax refund, provided they travel outside the US within 30 days after the purchase of the goods. You can only claim it at airports on the day of your departure. All the conditions and requirements are described in the above article

When you shop in America, you are not subject to Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST). The concept of VAT and GST exist in many countries, but in the US it is different, and you are only subject to Sales Tax when you do shopping.

This depends on the state and if they offer the tax refund. In certain states, if they charge sales tax and have a policy in place to refund sales tax, then you would likely get the tax refund. It is best to check with the online vendor and then the state policy for the same.

What are your experiences with tax refunds as tourists? Did you get any tax refund as a Resident? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Sales Tax Refund for Tourist - Florida Forum

United States
Florida (FL)

Sales Tax Refund for Tourist

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No refunds on sales tax- it's nothing like the VAT system in Europe- sorry!

Thanks. I'll probably choose somewhere else to spend my money. Going somewhere warm for 4 months and would like my sales tax returned. I think Mexico does this.

Well actually one place n FL does.

Macy's gives all overseas visitors Incl CA 10% off in lieu of a sales tax refund?

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Generally, no refund of sales tax is available if you took possession of the item from the vendor with a given state. In the United States, sales tax is imposed at the point of transfer of title or possession. Therefore, if a non-resident visitor to the United States purchases any taxable items and takes possession of the goods at the retailer’s location, sales tax is due and there is generally no refund of the sales tax paid simply because the goods will be removed from the United States. The United States is different from many other countries that have a VAT structure, where it is more common to get this type of refund.

If the retailer ships the goods out of the United States to the non-resident’s location in another country, then the sales tax is generally not due. However, the retailer must export the goods and the customer cannot take possession of the goods in the United States.

There is an exception to this rule in Louisiana, Texas and Washington.

The city of New Orleans offers a tax-free shopping program – the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping Program – for foreign visitors to the United States. Individuals travelling in the United States for 90 days or less with a foreign passport and/or a current US visitor’s visa and an international transportation ticket can apply for a refund of sales tax paid on qualifying items purchased from New Orleans retailers taking part in the program.

U.S. resident aliens residing in the U.S. and elsewhere, foreign students residing in the U.S., United States citizens living in another country, dual citizens (United States & another country), and visitors in the U.S. for more than 90 days are not eligible for the program.

Refunds are authorized for purchases of material movable property that is permanently removed from the state by the foreign visitor. Purchases of food and beverages that are consumed within the state are not eligible for sales tax refunds. For more information, visit the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping website .

Texas allows international visitors meeting certain requirements to acquire a refund of sales tax paid on their purchases. In Texas, the refund process takes place through private companies. In order to qualify for the refund, the private companies require the purchaser to shop at a participating store, process the refund at one of their specified locations, and produce the following items:

Purchased merchandise (new and unused). A minimum amount of sales tax per store location may be required.
Original receipts (no photocopies, duplicates, emails, etc. are accepted)
Travel documents (such as passport, visa, etc.)
Flight or transportation information (such as an airline ticket or boarding pass)

Additionally, the items must be purchased within 30 days of the visitor’s departure. The sales tax refund for international visitors is allowed through Texas’s tax statutes for imports/exports and customs brokers.

In Washington state, sales tax does not apply to sales of tangible personal property, digital goods and digital codes to non-residents of the state when:

the property is for use outside of Washington;
the purchaser is a resident of a province or territory of Canada or a state, territory or possession of the United States (other than the state of Washington), and that state, possession, territory or province does not impose a sales tax, use tax, value added tax, gross receipts tax on retailing activities or similar generally applicable tax, of 3% or more or, if imposing such a tax, provides an exemption for sales to Washington residents by reason of their residence; and
the purchaser agrees, when requested, to grant the department of revenue access to such records and other forms of verification at his place of residence as to provide assurance that such purchases are not first used substantially in the state of Washington.

This exemption applies when a non-resident makes a purchase of a taxable good within Washington but the use of the good will occur outside of Washington. Nothing in the provision requires a retailer to make the tax-exempt sale to non-residents (Washington, Sec. 82.08.0273). Sales within designated free trade zones may have an exemption as long as the customer does not take possession of the goods and the retailer has responsibility for export of the goods. For more information, visit the Washington DOR’s webpage .

Washington State has provided guidance on the requirements for a sale to qualify as an export sale exempt from retail sales tax when a customs broker is involved. To qualify as an exempt export sale, a sale must meet one of the following requirements:

the goods must be delivered to the buyer in another country;
the goods must be delivered to a carrier who transfers the goods to another country; or
the goods must be delivered to the buyer at shipside or aboard the buyer’s vessel or other vehicle.

If goods are delivered to an out-of-state buyer’s customs broker in Washington for subsequent delivery to the out-of-state buyer in Washington, the sale is not an exempt export sale. The seller must collect retail sales tax and must pay retailing business and occupation (B&O) tax on the sale.

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Can US tourists get a sales tax refund when leaving the country?

by TaxJar January 5, 2024

Please note: This blog was originally published in 2021. It’s since been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

I remember traveling in Ireland and a nice shopkeeper reminding me that I could get any VAT I paid as a tourist back before leaving the country. How handy! But that led me to wonder, since the US is so fragmented (what with 46 states and Washington D.C. all administering their own sales tax), does the US do the same thing for tourists when it comes to sales tax?

The short answer is: not really.

But there are some exceptions. Let’s take a look at what tourists from outside the US can expect when it comes to a sales tax refund.

There’s no federal US sales tax

Before we get into the how of sales tax refunds, it is first important to understand the “why.” Unlike Europe, where a nationwide value added tax (VAT) is applied to most transactions, the US allows each state to set their own sales tax rules and laws.

Sales tax is charged at the point of sale and is a percentage of the price of the product. Sales tax is a “consumption tax,” meaning that it is charged for use of the product. That’s why a retailer who is buying a product to resell does not have to pay sales tax while an end user does have to pay sales tax – because they are the one “consuming” the product.

And even if sales tax weren’t a consumption tax, because the US’s sales tax is fragmented among the forty-six different states (and Washington D.C.) that all have a sales tax, there’s no easy or commonsense way for a tourist in the US (especially one who has traveled and made purchases in multiple states) to collect any sales tax paid before leaving the country.

Exceptions to the tourist sales tax refund rule

According to the Sales Tax Institute , there are a few exceptions which allow international tourists to claim sales tax paid. They are:

Louisiana tax free shopping program – Individuals traveling in the US for less than 90 days and who hold a foreign passport, US Visitor’s Visa and an international transportation ticket to leave the country can apply for a refund on sales tax paid at a few qualifying retailers. Learn more at the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping Program website .
Texas private sales tax refunds – Some private companies in Texas will refund the sales tax paid by international visitors who shop at certain stores. This is very limited, and requires the buyer to purchase from a participating store and provide proof such as original receipts, travel documents, flight or transportation numbers and even spend a certain amount of sales tax per store in order to participate.
Washington non-resident sales tax exemption – The state of Washington provides a sales tax exemption to buyers who make a purchase of an item in Washington but do not intend to use the item in the state of Washington. Learn more about Washington’s non-resident sales tax exemption here .

You can also read more about each program here: “ I am visiting from another country. Can I get a refund of sales tax paid? ”

Diplomatic sales tax exemptions

Diplomats serving in the US, as well as their families and dependents, are not required to pay sales tax. In this case, the diplomat and their contingent are given a sales tax exemption card. According to the US Department of State, “Diplomatic tax exemption cards can generally be used to obtain exemption in person and at point-of-sale from sales taxes and other similarly imposed taxes on purchases of most goods and services, hotel stays, and restaurant meals in the United States.”

These cards must be presented each time the diplomat is required to pay sales tax. The vendor must look up the card’s validity or risk having to pay the unpaid sales tax out of pocket.

You can learn more about the US diplomatic sales tax exemption here .

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3 To Know: Tourism down slightly, Florida residents want free tax filing

1. florida tourism down slightly in 2023.

Visitors to Florida last year fell short of 2022’s record numbers, as a post-pandemic rebound in international travelers couldn’t overcome a noticeable drop-off in domestic tourism late in the year.

The Visit Florida tourism-marketing agency reports that Florida had an estimated 135.02 million tourists in 2023, down from 137.4 million in 2022.

Visit Florida, however, pointed to increases from 2019, the last year before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global travel, and improved international tourist numbers. The state drew about 131.1 million tourists in 2019.

“Even as we faced the challenges of rising travel costs and widespread inflation, Florida's tourism sector not only persevered but flourished (in 2023),” Visit Florida President and CEO Dana Young said in a prepared statement. “From record air travel numbers to the significant return of international visitors, Florida continues to shine.”

The agency said 2.34 million overseas visitors in the fourth quarter of 2023 marked a 15.9 percent increase from the final quarter of 2022. Also, 1.07 million Canadians in the fourth quarter of 2023 was a 22 percent improvement from the same period in 2022.

But the overall fourth-quarter number in 2023 of 29.8 million tourists was down from 32.9 million during the same period in 2022. U.S. travelers dropped 12.1 percent. Florida totaled 122.89 million U.S. tourists in 2023, down from almost 127.8million in 2022. The domestic tourist number was about 117.2 million in 2019. – Jim Turner/News Service of Florida

2. Target to team up with iconic fashion brand

Target has announced a limited-edition collaboration with the iconic fashion brand Diane von Furstenberg, heading to stores this spring.

The Diane von Furstenberg for Target collection is a collaboration between the fashion designer and her granddaughter, Talita von Furstenberg. It will be available beginning March 23 both in stores and on Target’s website, while supplies last.

Target is also offering customers a chance to shop the collection early at a public event March 15-16 at The Shed in New York City.

According to a release, the Diane von Furstenberg for Target collection includes over 200 items featuring archival von Furstenberg prints, as well as new patterns and pieces exclusive to Target. In addition to the brand’s iconic wrap dresses, the collection will include apparel for women, girls and babies and accessories, beauty and home decor, with most items priced under $50.

It will also feature made-to-order furniture starting at $300, including headboards, benches and room dividers that can be customized in one of seven exclusive fabrics made for the Target collection. – Emily DeLetter/USA Today

3. Poll: 95% of Florida taxpayers want free tax filing service from IRS, Direct File

Last month the Internal Revenue Service launched a new free tax filing service for the 2023 tax season designed to be easy to use, mobile-friendly and accurate for qualified residents in 12 states. Florida is one of them.

And Florida taxpayers seem to approve of the new Direct File service, or at least the idea of it. A lot.

In a recent poll conducted by polling service GQR for the progressive advocacy nonprofit group Groundwork Collaborative's Groundwork Action “Better IRS” campaign, a “near-unanimous majority” (95%) of the Florida residents polled support the IRS offering a free online tax service, according to a recent news release.

Of the 95%, 62% said they “strongly support” it. Only five percent of the respondents opposed the new free service. – C. A. Bridges/Staff

More 3 To Do: Author luncheon in Bonita, 5K in Estero, ‘Marco in Bloom’

And SWFLA To Do List: March marches in and we have all the events

Use your tax refund for an unexpected vacation this spring

Paris skyline with Sacre Coeur basilica and Montmartre, Paris, France

With tax season upon us, many Americans are anxious to know what it will mean for their tax payments — and refunds. The good news is that the average tax refunds have been increasing over the past few years, and according to the IRS , that trend is still continuing as of the latest data. This means, there's the potential for even more surprise money to hit your pocket this tax season.

Tax returns vary state to state and person to person, but past data and future estimates can still give taxpayers a sense of what they'll be forking over to the IRS — or getting back as a return — come April. As the data shows, the average refund as of late February is $3,213 — up 4.3% from last year.

Some states also typically have higher averages than other. With data put together from LendingTree for the tax year 2021, residents of Wyoming, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington, D.C., received the largest average refund, at over $5,000. On the flip side, for the same tax year, residents of Maine, West Virginia and Vermont received the smallest average refunds — with numbers in the low $3,000s. While the exact averages for this year will be slightly different, the highest and lowest states usually stay pretty similar.

Each individual will spend their tax refund differently, and some will even use it to pay off their debt or put into savings. But, if you were hoping to put your refund towards travel, we have some great options for you. And really, what better way to celebrate spring (and the end of tax season) than with a trip paid for in full with a tax refund?

Despite the refund amount, you might be pleasantly surprised to see how far it can take you. There are also many sites you can use, such as Going.com and Skyscanner.com, to figure out last-minute vacation deals.

$3,000 to $3,200

With a more modest tax refund, visitors can still plan an awesome trip, either domestically or abroad. The lowest tax refund is, typically, in Maine, where the average taxpayer saw a refund of $3,144 (based on tax year 2021). With that money, a solo traveler could travel to Cartagena, Colombia. We found nonstop flights from New York City for $669 in May or, if you're willing to have a layover, flights as low as $363.

You could also enjoy Dublin this spring for just $607 round-trip. With close to $2,500 remaining, that could go a long way for accommodations, food and entertainment.

Related: JetBlue plots 'opportunistic' growth in Europe as carrier inaugurates new Dublin routes

Of course, the budget won't go as far for couples, but we were able to find flights to Reykjavik on low-cost carrier PLAY for as low as $387 round-trip. This means a couple can fly across the pond for less than $800 round-trip and enjoy a multi-day trip exploring Iceland. While Iceland isn't necessarily the cheapest destination, there are many points-friendly properties in the city .

If you're looking for somewhere to take the entire family, you can spend a week in Sedona, Arizona, hiking the red rocks or choose to lounge on the beach in Florida's Key West — as we found round-trip flights around $200 to $300 from many East Coast airports.

Related: 4 family-friendly road trips you can take through Arizona

$3,250 to $3,450

Taxpayers who fall into this band — which is currently the average person as of February — can escape still-chilly temperatures with trips to sunny and beautiful destinations across the U.S.

For a lower-budget trip, you can fly nonstop from Burlington, Vermont, to Orlando for as low as $151 round-trip on Breeze Airways . A visit to Orlando absolutely doesn't have to include visiting the mouse, as both Disney World and Universal offer many attractions that don't require a park ticket. You'll find many fun and entertaining hotels — at inexpensive rates — throughout the area.

Related: Splash into fun — The 14 best hotel pools in Orlando

For international vacations, we found flights from Boston to Frankfurt for just $437 round-trip per person. You could also take a quick flight to the island of Aruba from Washington, D.C., for just $396. Entire families can enjoy a trip here by using points to reserve a stay at one of the island's many great points properties .

$3,550 to $4,550

If you're able to snag a refund higher than the current average, this could potentially allow you to spend some portion on travel and save the rest.

For residents of Nevada, Alaska, or any other western states, the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington are a short flight and boat ride away. The idyllic archipelago is filled with state parks and greenery, making it the perfect option for nature lovers who want to hike, kayak, swim or watch for orcas starting in May. Flights originating from the west can be as low as $90 per person (from what we saw from Las Vegas to Seattle on Frontier Airlines), and hotels on the islands usually cost from $115 to $285 per night in late May.

Related: Earn points, miles and cash back while doing your taxes

For international locations, residents of the West Coast can fly to parts of South America in just a few hours. Flights from California to Bogota, Colombia, are typically between $300 and $400 in May.

East Coast residents can turn to St. Martin for a great getaway as flights cost around $300 on Delta. Or, take a nonstop flight to Paris for about $500 from New York on airlines such as French Bee, Air Caraibes or Norse Atlantic Airways. Travelers can splurge at one of the best hotels in Paris , such as the Ritz Paris or Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome . Or, cash in your hotel points for an award night, and you'll have plenty of refund money left over to experience some incredible French dining.

$4,800 to $6,000

If you happen to live in one of the highest refund states — which typically includes Connecticut, Nevada, New York, Florida, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., and Wyoming — you could embark on the vacation of a lifetime.

Southeast Asia can be extremely inexpensive, allowing your refund to go quite far. While your flight will eat up the bulk of your refund — we found flights to Bali starting at $1,500 per person — hotels, experiences and dining are extremely inexpensive. So, even though flights might cost north of $3,000 if you're traveling as a couple, you can easily stay for 10 days with just $1,800 to $3,000 in your back pocket.

For example, we found rates at the Aloft Bali, Seminyak for less than $100 per night (and you'll be within walking distance of the beach). You can then enjoy the spectacular scenery in and around Ubud for just $125 per night at the Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel (another Marriott property).

Related: Bali on a budget: Booking 6 nights in luxury hotels for just 36,000 points

If you're looking for something completely different, North African temperatures tend to be relatively mild in the spring, making it a great time to visit Morocco. Flights to Africa tend to run on the more expensive side, regardless of the time of year. However, flights to Casablanca are actually quite reasonable and can be found between $500 and $900 round-trip — depending on whether you want a nonstop flight or one with a layover. Visitors can rent entire homes near Casablanca with Airbnb for slightly over $100 per night, and many even include their own pools.

Bottom line

Although your tax refund is technically excess taxes you've paid throughout the year — or have had withheld from your paycheck — it can often feel like free money. There's no better way to travel than with unexpected money that just landed on your lap.

With my travel options, you can put this tax refund to good use and truly experience a fun vacation.

Credits & Deductions

INFORMATION FOR...
Businesses & Self-Employed
Earned Income Credit (EITC)
Child Tax Credit
Clean Energy and Vehicle Credits
Standard Deduction
Retirement Plans

Forms & Instructions

POPULAR FORMS & INSTRUCTIONS
Form 1040 Instructions
Form 4506-T
POPULAR FOR TAX PROS
Form 1040-X
Circular 230

IRS final reminder: Time to claim $1 billion in tax refunds from 2020 expires May 17

Many people who didn’t file may be eligible for more

By missing out on filing a tax return, people stand to lose more than just their refund of taxes withheld or paid during 2020. The estimate does not include credits that non-filers may be eligible to receive. Credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) , the Recovery Rebate Credit or other credits that may be applicable.

Many low- and moderate-income workers may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). For 2020, the EITC was worth as much as $6,660 for taxpayers with qualifying children. The EITC helps individuals and families whose incomes are below certain thresholds.

The IRS has previously reminded those who may be entitled to the COVID-era Recovery Rebate Credit in 2020 that time is running out to file a tax return and claim their money. The Recovery Rebate Credit is a refundable credit for individuals who did not receive one or more Economic Impact Payments, also known as stimulus payments, distributed in 2020 and 2021.

Plan to file? IRS offers options to get key documents

Gathering all the necessary documents and forms to file a return for 2020 may take some time. People should start as soon as possible to make sure they have enough time to file before the May 17 deadline for 2020 refunds. Here are some options:

Request copies of key documents. Taxpayers who are missing Forms W-2, 1098, 1099 or 5498 for the years 2020, 2021 or 2022 can request copies from their employer, bank or other payers.
Use Get Transcript Online at IRS.gov. Taxpayers who have lost contact with their employer or other payers can order a free wage and income transcript at IRS.gov using the Get Transcript Online tool. For many taxpayers, this is by far the quickest and easiest option.
Request a transcript. Another option is for people to file Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return , with the IRS to request a “wage and income transcript.” A wage and income transcript shows data from information returns received by the IRS, such as Forms W-2, 1099, 1098, Form 5498 and IRA contribution information. Taxpayers can use the information from the transcript to file their tax return. But plan ahead – these written requests can take several weeks; people are strongly urged to try the other options first.
Current and prior years’ tax forms. Tax year 2020 Forms 1040 and 1040-SR and instructions are available on the IRS.gov Forms, instructions & publications page or by calling toll-free 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Taxpayers who are unsure if they are required to file a return can visit Do I need to file a tax return? or refer to Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals) .

Free help is available

For individuals who have not filed a federal income a tax return for 2020, the IRS offers tools and resources on IRS.gov. Free support includes the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) , information on What to do if you haven’t filed your return , and Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQs) .

Qualified taxpayers can also access free tax preparation assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs . Use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887 to locate the nearest VITA site.

The IRS also reassures taxpayers there is no penalty for claiming a refund on a late-filed tax return. Direct deposit is recommended as the quickest and simplest way to receive a tax refund.

State-by-state estimates of individuals who may be due 2020 income tax refunds

The IRS estimated the number of individuals in each state and the median potential refund a filer may be entitled to receive. The actual refund amount will vary based on a household’s tax situation.

* Excluding credits.

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Obtaining a Tax Refund in Florida

How to check your florida tax refund.

Every state in the U.S. has its own timetable for issuing state income tax refunds. Because Florida does not collect individual income tax, you will not get a tax refund in Florida for individual taxes.

How to Check Your Federal Tax Refund Status

More Help Filing a Florida Tax Return as a Business

While individuals are not subject to individual income taxes in Florida and will not have to fill out a Florida tax return, businesses are another story. Learn more about H&R Block business services now.

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Tax-Free in the USA for Foreigners and Tourists from Other Countries

April 7, 2023

Is There a Tax-Free Program in the USA?

According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection department, the United States Government doesn’t refund sales tax to tourists and foreign visitors .

Even though the USA does not have a tax-free program like Europe, foreigners and tourists can return taxes or buy without taxes by:

Making a purchase in a state where there is no sales tax
Making a purchase in a state that has a sales tax refund (or VAT refund)

Tax-Free Shopping in the USA – List of States

By 2023, only five states do not charge VAT on the purchase of goods:

New Hampshire

Although these states charge other forms of tax instead of VAT, the absence of a sales tax can make shopping more rewarding, especially for out-of-state visitors or tourists.

Everyone (both locals and foreigners) can buy goods without VAT in tax-free states. However, there are two more states, where just foreign tourists, such as people from Mexico, can return sales tax in the USA:

In those states, the program is similar to the European one: buy product and then return sales taxes. With that said, the approach varies per state:

Louisiana – Shop at a tax-refundable store and show your passport to the cashier. To find out stores where you can shop without taxes, search for the white-red-blue stickers that indicate “Louisiana Tax-Free Shopping”. The seller will provide a tax return voucher that you can exchange for money at the New Orleans airport or downtown Lafayette. You can find out more about Tax-Free in the USA on the official website of the tax refund program .
Texas – It works similarly, but in addition, a flight ticket or other travel document is also required. In Texas, you can also make a tax refund at the airport or at 14 other locations across the state.

Tax-Free in the USA allows you to save money while shopping in the US by buying goods without taxes or receiving return taxes for purchases that you have already made.

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At the airport
International travel

Tax exemptions

Tourism tax refunds.

You may be entitled to a refund of some taxes included in the price of your ticket if you meet the applicable criteria for exemptions and your itinerary involves:

Travel between the U.S. and Mexico (including travel between Canada and Mexico via the U.S.)
International travel departing Belize, Colombia or Trinidad and Tobago
International travel arriving into Colombia

All refund claims must be submitted within 12 months of ticket issuance.

Belize Airport Development Tax (BU) exemptions

Airline crew on duty
Belizean citizens with a valid passport, Belizean resident card or a naturalization certificate
Ministers of government, members of the national assembly, or members of the diplomatic and consular corp
Military personnel
Mayors of municipalities
Official of international organizations
Caribbean community secretariat personnel traveling on official business
Minister and officials of other government visiting Belize at the invitation of the Belize government
Public officers traveling on official business
Approved scholarship holders leaving Belize to study abroad and sports and cultural groups representing Belize who been accredited by the government.

Belize Airport Departure Tax (FV) exemptions

Belize conservation tax (fu) exemptions.

Infant under the age of two
Children under the age of 12

Belize International Security Fee (FW) exemptions

Colombia tourism tax (js) exemptions.

Passengers arriving to Colombia on international flights and connecting with international flights within 24 hours or less
Passengers arriving on international flights and connecting with domestic flights or stopping in Colombia for more than 24 hours are NOT exempted.

Colombia Resident Exit Tax (DG) exemptions

Infants under the age of two
Children under the age of five
Government officials
Non-Colombian residents whose stay does not exceed 60 days in Colombia
Sports delegations accredited by the national government
Colombians residents abroad whose stay does not exceed 180 days in Colombia
Transiting Colombia within 24 hours unless on domestic to international sector transit
Students with government grants
Airline staff traveling on duty

Mexico Tourism Tax (UK) exemptions

Mexican citizen (Passport)
Resident of Mexico (permanent or temporary) holding a Mexico Visa
Transit/transfer passenger remaining less than 24 hours in Mexico; passengers stopping over in Mexico aren’t entitled to a refund

Mexico Departure Tax (TUA) (XD) exemptions

Diplomat (does not include staff or U.S. Embassy in Mexico)

If your travel is not complete and you meet the exception criteria, please contact us for assistance.

Reservations and ticket changes

If you've completed all travel and think you’re entitled to a refund, please contact Refunds to submit a claim.

Receipts and refunds

Trinidad and Tobago Passenger Service Charge Tax exemptions

Passengers who are 60 years or above and is a citizen or a resident of Trinidad and Tobago
Members of the Trinidad Tobago defense force of the armed forces of any country traveling on official duty
Members of the crew of any aircraft or ship are exempt
Transiting Trinidad Tobago within 24 hours unless on domestic to international sector transit
Involuntary rerouting due to technical difficulties, weather conditions or other valid reasons
Passengers arriving on international flights and connecting with domestic flights or stopping in Trinidad and Tobago for more than 24 hours are not exempted

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Tourist Development Taxes

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Ways To Pay

Pinellas County Tourist Development Tax Code

2023 - 2024 comparative report.

Local Option Cvb Reports

Register an Account

Please email us at [email protected] to request an application
Register for a tourist development (TD) account with our office
Collect TD tax from guest(s)/renter(s)
Remit TD tax to our offices
Apartment/Garage
Multiple unit structure (duplex, triplex, condominium, etc.)
Rooming house (hostel, bed & breakfast, inn, etc.)
Tourist/mobile home park (RV park, campground, etc.)
Beach house/cottage
Mobile home
Houseboats or boats permanently docked and not operated on water
However, if the agent fails to collect and pay the tax, the owner will be held liable for the taxes
Please call 727-464-5007 with any questions.

Report a Violation

If you know or suspect someone is evading the TD tax, you can anonymously report a violation to our office. Please be as detailed as possible in your report.

Call 727-464-5007 OR
Email [email protected] OR
Download and complete the TIPS FORM
Misterb&b
TripAdvisor
Misterb&b*
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VacationHomeRentals
VacationRentals

Please verify whether or not the rental platform you use collects and pays the required TD tax for you. If not, the rental property owner is responsible for paying the TD tax.

Ways to Pay

Pay online!

Pinellas County Tax Collector

PO Box 6440

Clearwater, FL 33758-6440

Please follow these instructions
While most tax returns are accepted as filed, all returns are subject to an audit
Most audits are random. Others are audited due to referrals from our collections department for habitually filing late returns, incomplete returns, or referrals from the Florida Department of Revenue
Audits are conducted to ensure the tax is uniformly enforced, to deter tax evasion, to promote voluntary compliance, and to educate taxpayers in the proper method of reporting
The audit may or may not result in additional tax due or a refund being due

How does an audit work?

A letter is sent, giving 60 days notice before scheduling the audit
The audit must begin within 120 days of the notice
Examples of the documents are listed below. This is not an all-inclusive list. There may be additional documents* requested once the audit has begun

Required Audit Documents:

Florida Department of Revenue Sales Tax Returns (DR-15)
General Ledgers
Chart of Accounts
Federal Income Tax Returns
Exemption certificates and the corresponding folios
Monthly bank statements, deposit slips, merchant statements, credit card receipts
Guest folio/registration cards/guest applications

*A member of our team will contact you if additional documents are required

Record Retention and Availability Requirements:

Records must be maintained for three years
All records must be available for audit in Pinellas County at the time of the audit to insure timely review by the County Auditor
Any person who collects rental charges for short-term accommodations must keep adequate records, including copies of all leases, rental agreements, etc.
If records are insufficient, or no records are available, an assessment may be issued based upon the best available information
A power of attorney form will be needed if the owner wants us to talk with an accountant, attorney, or bookkeeper about their account

Individuals who are exempt from paying state sales tax will be exempt from paying the TD tax.

Please note that special conditions must be met for these to be exempt.

Some exempt classifications include:

Federal Government Workers
Florida State Government Workers
Foreign Diplomats
US Armed Forces Personnel
Tax exempt organizations
Full-Time Students
Persons with continuous residence
Persons with a bona fide written lease

Please call 727-464-5007 for more details regarding exemptions.

TD tax does not apply to charges for:

Phone, internet, TV services
Utility charges
Meals and beverages
Items in a mini fridge or other in-accommodation device
Use of safes/safety deposit boxes at the registration desk (not in-room safes)
Admissions like golf, tennis, cultural events, which are billed separately
Fines/penalties/fees for lost or damaged room items
Laundry services
Valet service
Packaging or delivery services
Payment was made when it was not owed
Payment was made in error
An overpayment was made
If documentation is extensive, submit a written request for our office to review the records at the location
All accounting records for the timeframe involved are subject to audit verification if necessary
Please email us at [email protected] to request an Application for Refund
A refund claim will be processed within 90 days if the application is complete and supporting documentation was provided
A refund cannot be requested three (3) years after the date the tax was paid due to the established statute of limitation
An accountant or another representative can handle a refund request if a completed Power of Attorney form is included with the refund application

***If you have any questions regarding your refund, please email [email protected] or call 727-464-5007.

Email the completed application and supporting documentation to [email protected] or send via mail to:

Attn: Tourist Development Audit Department

P.O. Box 6440

The rules regulating the collection and distribution of the TD tax are found in the Pinellas County Tourist Development Tax Code .

Note: This report is based on information provided by the Pinellas County Tax Collector's Budget and Finance Department.

Local Option CVB Reports

Note: The figures on this report reflect the taxes collected to date for this specific reporting period.

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Sales Tax Refund for Tourist - Florida Forum

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Sales Tax Refund for Tourist

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No refunds on sales tax- it's nothing like the VAT system in Europe- sorry!

Thanks. I'll probably choose somewhere else to spend my money. Going somewhere warm for 4 months and would like my sales tax returned. I think Mexico does this.

Well actually one place n FL does.

Macy's gives all overseas visitors Incl CA 10% off in lieu of a sales tax refund?

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Your tax refund could be bigger this year. Here's what to do with it

The average taxpayer is getting a $2,852 refund, $75 more than last year

NEW YORK -- The average taxpayer is getting a $2,852 refund, $75 more than last year, based on the most recent IRS data. So what should you do with that money?

Experts generally advise putting it toward debt and savings, but, for many people, that's unrealistic.

A tax refund is typically the “biggest extra windfall of the year," said Courtney Alev, consumer financial advocate at Credit Karma.

“One thing we do see is a propensity to consider a tax refund something to splurge with. One in four taxpayers see it as free money and plan to spend it on something they would not otherwise," she said. “While this behavior is completely understandable, given how hard up people are — with the rising cost of living, and high interest rates, the best thing you can do is use it as an opportunity to advance your financial goals.”

Emily Garcia, 30, who works in marketing for a medical imaging software company in Toledo, Ohio, said she and her husband, with whom she filed jointly, were refunded about $1,000 and spent the money on patio furniture.

“We wanted to dress up the backyard, to make it seem nice, and furniture’s not cheap,” she said. “It was a nice thing to have the refund check to be able to buy what we were looking at.”

Though Garcia and her husband bought a house two years ago, which they’re still in the process of paying off, they decided not to put the refund toward their mortgage.

”The debt’s not going anywhere,” said Garcia. “A thousand dollars is not going to make a dent. But it’s a good amount to buy something like furniture.”

Megan McClelland, 38, who works as a head high school counselor in Petaluma, California, is spending her refund — just over $1,000 — on travel, such as trips for a bachelorette and a wedding.

In October, McClelland had the last of her outstanding student loans cancelled through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, and so is debt free for the first time in years. She said that the $500 she had budgeted for her monthly student loan payments is now going into her savings account, so she sees the refund as a chance to spend on “things that I probably otherwise wouldn’t be able to pay for — or that would bring me into debt.”

In the past, McClelland said, she would typically have had to work extra shifts, moonlighting at a winery or as a caterer, to take a trip — or put the travel on the credit card. Now she can use the tax refund instead.

“The way the tax refund works in my mind is I can use it more for ‘fun money,’” she said.

As of late last month, the IRS had processed about 141 million returns and refunded roughly $261 billion to taxpayers, 2.2% more than at that time in 2023.

Matt Schulz, chief credit analyst at LendingTree, echoed the idea that paying down debt and contributing to savings are the two most financially sound things to do with a tax refund, though he said people should do both simultaneously, rather than choosing between the two.

“If you pay down debt to zero and you don’t have any savings, all that happens is the next time you have an emergency expense — like a flat tire or taking your dog to the vet — that expense just goes back on your credit card and you’re right back in debt,” he said. “If you can build a little bit of savings while you’re paying off loans you can break that cycle of debt so many people find themselves in.”

Said Alev: “Life is short, we want to reward ourselves. And we see a diverse set of responses (with tax refunds). Our best tip is to use that refund to get your financial life on track. At the treetop, that’s what we’re seeing and advising.”

The Associated Press receives support from Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism.

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Americans have just a few more days to claim $932 tax refund

Published: May. 14, 2024, 10:59 a.m.

Americans have until May 17 to file their tax year 2020 returns and still receive a potential refund in excess of $900, according to the Internal Revenue Service. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Erik Bascome | [email protected]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The more than 900,000 Americans who never filed their tax year 2020 returns have only a few more days to claim a potential refund that may exceed $900.

Earlier this month, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reminded the nearly 1 million Americans who didn’t file their tax year 2020 returns that they only have until Friday, May 17, to file their return and potentially receive a refund from a pool of more than $1 billion in unclaimed refunds.

“People faced extremely unusual situations during the pandemic, which may have led some people to forget about a potential refund on their 2020 tax returns,” IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said earlier this year. “People may have just overlooked these, including students, part-time workers and others. Some people may not realize they may be owed a refund.”

Across the country, an estimated 938,800 residents failed to file their 2020 returns, with more than $1 billion in refunds remaining unclaimed and a median potential refund of $932.

In New York, an estimated 51,400 residents failed to file their 2020 returns, with nearly $61 million in refunds remaining unclaimed.

The median potential refund for Empire State residents sits as $1,029 , slightly above the nationwide median potential refund of $932.

Typically, residents are required to file their returns within three years of the due date in order to receive a refund with no penalty. That means that 2020 returns, which were due in 2021, must be filed in 2024 for a refund to be issued.

The filing deadline to claim old refunds typically falls around the standard tax deadline on Apr. 15, but because the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic pushed the 2020 filing deadline to May 17, 2021, residents have until that date this year to file their old returns and claim their past refunds.

In order to receive any potential refund, residents will also need to file tax returns from 2021 and 2022, otherwise their 2020 refund may be held, according to the IRS.

Current and prior year tax forms (such as the tax year 2020 Forms 1040 and 1040-SR) and instructions are available on the IRS.gov Forms & Instructions page or by calling toll-free 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

How much does it cost DeSantis to travel from one place to another? Florida won't tell you

Why it matters: a new law is being used to prevent the public from seeing how tax dollars are spent for gov. ron desantis' travel..

Gov. Ron DeSantis regularly jets around the state.

Stops over the last month have included Coral Gables, Jacksonville and Cape Canaveral , all to sign bills passed by the Florida Legislature earlier this year.

His constituents may know DeSantis went to these three cities, but they won't know how much it cost them. The state says such financial records are exempt from public records disclosure, citing a 2023 law geared at concealing certain information to prevent the endangerment of the governor and other officials.

A total amount for how much is spent on the governor's travel is released every year by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, but the agency recently denied a public records request from the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida seeking a detailed breakdown.

Open government advocates and others argue the new law prevents the public from clearly knowing whether personal and political trips, which shouldn't be paid for with tax dollars, were kept separate from official travel.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

"I don't understand this inconsistency.... He was at a public event, it doesn't make any sense to protect that," said Michael Barfield, director of public access initiatives for the Florida Center for Government Accountability, which has filed multiple public records lawsuits against the governor. "It's my understanding the legislation did not preclude the release of financial amounts."

He wasn't the only one given that impression.

State Rep. Anna Eskamani, an Orlando Democrat, asked a sponsor of the legislation ( SB 1616 ) about financial transparency on the House floor in early May 2023: "How do you strike the balance between ensuring that the public still knows how their money is being spent with travel?"

“None of the finances that are currently public records ... or the reports that are currently available are changing,” replied Rep. Jeff Holcomb, R-Spring Hill.

In a phone interview with a reporter a year later, Eskamani said the GOP supporters of the bill should now be working to get such information out to the public.

"Based on the constant response by the bill sponsor and by others who attempted to say that this bill was all about safety and security, the impression by those in support of the bill was that this information would still be made available," Eskamani said. "I never bought that reasoning or that excuse, but that was definitely what they were pitching to their colleagues."

On the road again: Florida governors' travels long a topic of interest

The travel of Florida's governors has been a topic of intrigue and controversy for decades . Attention on DeSantis' travel ramped up even more when he was barnstorming the nation in the months leading up to his unsuccessful presidential campaign, which formally began on May 24, 2023.

FDLE's report, released in August , showed that it spent more than $8 million protecting and transporting the governor during the 2022-23 fiscal year. It marked a multi-million dollar increase in spending over the previous year.

The law enforcement agency denied the USA TODAY Network-Florida's breakdown request in early May, about nine months after it was made.

The governor's office has not responded to requests for comment, but representatives of DeSantis have previously dismissed concerns about his travel practices.

"The state does not coordinate or plan political travel, nor does the taxpayer fund political travel," spokesperson Bryan Griffin said in an email last year.

Dana Kelly, an FDLE spokesperson, responded via email only that the annual report is "the public record of expenses."

The law took effect on May 11, 2023, the day DeSantis signed it .

“With the security situation, how you do patterns of movements, if you’re somebody that is targeted, which unfortunately I am, and I get a lot of threats, that could be something that could be helpful for people that may not want to do good things,” DeSantis said at the time.

And that's how the bill's GOP champions framed the exemption, which also concealed records about who visits the governor's mansion. The law applies not just to the governor but his immediate family, as well as the House speaker, Senate president and state Supreme Court chief justice.

"We are government in the sunshine," said state Sen. Jonathan Martin, a bill sponsor and Fort Myers Republican, on the Senate floor. "This allows us to continue to do that in these new and interesting times that we find ourselves, where seemingly innocent information can be conglomerated to reveal very personal aspects of your life."

And Holcomb said before the House vote, "unfortunately, this very simple bill that is truly about the safety and security of our most senior elected officials has become politicized," responding to a slew of criticism from lawmakers on the other side of the aisle.

Eskamani wasn't the only legislative Democrat who had doubts. All of them voted against the measure.

"If someone is running for president and they hold the governor's office, that travel should be transparent, and those finances and all of those things and whatever they do should be transparent," said Rep. Michele Rayner, D-St. Petersburg.

Holcomb and Martin didn't respond to requests for comments.

DeSantis travel, security spending: As taxpayers pay more for DeSantis' travel and protection, new law conceals his travel

DeSantis faces records lawsuits: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis accused of lack of transparency, sued again in Tallahassee

Transparency advocates call foul on latest records exemption

American Oversight, a government accountability watchdog that sued the governor's office for alleged public records violations a couple of months ago , said the law doesn’t apply to expenditures. In an emailed statement, the group pointed out that the Florida Constitution requires that any exemption “shall be no broader than necessary to accomplish the stated purpose of the law.”

“That means that the exemption must be interpreted narrowly (in line with its stated purpose); otherwise, it would be unconstitutional because it would be broader than necessary to accomplish its purpose,” said Ron Fein, American Oversight’s chief counsel. “If a financial record does happen to contain security information covered by the exemption, it can be redacted.”

The legislation listed out multiple examples of exempt records; Fein says financial records don’t fall under any of them. And he says such records don’t fall under the law’s purpose to prevent records disclosures that “could endanger the protected person.”

The law shouldn’t have been passed in the first place, Fein added: “Not only is it overbroad and probably unconstitutional under the state’s Constitution, it flies in the face of Florida’s commitment to government transparency."

Bobby Block, executive director of Florida's First Amendment Foundation, had warned lawmakers last year about how all-encompassing the exemption could be. Reading the bill, he noticed how it didn't explicitly exclude financial records.

And, as a result, if the state chooses to consider those as exempt security records, it takes legal challenge to contest it. "The time to fight that is before it passes from the legislature," Block said in a recent phone call. "Once it passes its law, and it's a lot harder to push back."

The Washington Post is pushing back. It filed a lawsuit last year in Leon County Circuit Civil court, saying the records exemption law was unconstitutional.

It's a high-profile case that became even more noteworthy after the litigation uncovered that, as reported by The Post , top DeSantis aides prevented records on taxpayer-funded travel from being released – and retaliated against those who disagreed.

The Florida Center for Government Accountability's Barfield said Florida's public records system, once nationally esteemed for its transparency, was "broken at the state level."

"The bottleneck is in the governor's office," he said, pointing to a News 6 story showing how DeSantis' team reviews public records requests to state agencies.

"They know that our resources are thin to challenge the denial of access to public records, whether it's an excessive fee or an excessive, inordinate delay. And they're taking full advantage of that."

Contributed: News Service of Florida. This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. USA TODAY Network-Florida First Amendment reporter Douglas Soule can be reached at [email protected] .

Why you should expect to pay more tourist taxes – even though the evidence for them is unclear

Senior Lecturer in Economics, Bangor University

Senior Lecturer in Tourism Management, Bangor University

Disclosure statement

Rhys ap Gwilym has received funding from Welsh Government to conduct research relating to various devolved taxes, including the proposed visitor levy.

Linda Osti has received funding from Welsh Government to conduct research relating to the proposed visitor levy.

Bangor University provides funding as a member of The Conversation UK.

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In April 2024, Venice began its controversial experiment to charge day trippers €5 (£4.30) to visit the city on some of the busiest days of the year. But it’s not just the lagoon city, with its 30 million visitors a year which is interested in trying out new tourism taxes.

In the UK, a council in the county of Kent has recommended introducing a tourism tax on overnight stays in the county. In Scotland, it seems likely that visitors to Edinburgh will be paying a fee by 2026, and the Welsh government plans to introduce similar legislation later this year.

Such taxes may seem new to the UK, but there are more than 60 destinations around the world where this type of tax is already in place. These vary from a nationwide tax in Iceland to various towns across the US. Some have been in place for a long time (France was the first in 1910 ), but most were introduced during the last decade or two.

Before the pandemic really struck (and tourism was put on hold), 2020 was described by one newspaper as the “year of the tourist tax” , as Amsterdam joined an ever-growing list of destinations, which includes Paris, Malta and Cancun, to charge visitors for simply visiting.

Introducing these tourist taxes has often been controversial, with industry bodies voicing concerns about the potential impacts on the tourist trade.

And it appears that the link between such levies and visitor numbers is not simple, with several studies reaching different conclusions. For example, some have suggested that tourism levies have hindered international tourism in the Balearics and the Maldives , and that they may dissuade people from participating in domestic tourism .

Yet in one of the world’s most popular tourism spots with a levy, Barcelona, visitor numbers have consistently risen , with hotel guests increasing from 7.1 million in 2013 to 9.5 million in 2019.

In fact, the relationship between a visitor levy and tourist flow is so complex that there is no unified view, even within the same country. Italy has been one of the most studied, and results are inconsistent there too .

Another study, looking at three neighbouring Italian seaside spots finds that only in one destination has the visitor levy reduced tourist flow . And a study on the Italian cities of Rome, Florence and Padua shows that these cities have not experienced any negative effects either in terms of domestic or international demand.

So the impact of tourism taxes on visitor numbers is inconclusive.

But what about other effects, such as the potential benefits of spending the revenues raised? As part of an ongoing research project, we looked at seven different destinations in which tourist taxes are levied to look at how the money raised is then spent.

For most places, tourism tax revenues were being used to fund marketing and branding – so invested directly into promoting more tourism. The income was also commonly used to fund tourism infrastructure, from public toilets and walking or cycling paths to a multi-billion dollar convention centre in Orange County, Florida.

In the Balearics , revenues tend to go to projects that mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, culture and society of the islands. These include waste management, conserving natural habitats and historical monuments, and social housing.

But in general, tourism taxes have been implemented successfully across the destinations we looked at, and there is little evidence of tourists being put off from visiting.

Research also suggests that when tourists are told what the levy is used for – and when it relates directly to improving their experience or enhancing sustainable tourism – tourists are willing to accept and pay the levy.

Day trippers

For many tourism destinations, the major problem is not overnight tourists, but rather day visitors who use local resources while making little in the way of a financial contribution. For these reasons, taxes might also be used to deter day visits and instead encourage longer stays.

Venice is at the forefront of this shift. And in April 2024, after long discussions between the local authority, residents and business owners, Venice started a trial of a day visitor tax (a so-called “access fee” ).

Read more: An entry fee may not be enough to save Venice from 20 million tourists

Back in Kent, it may take longer for any such radical plans to come to fruition. In contrast to Scotland and Wales, there are currently no national plans to introduce tourist taxes in England.

This might be considered shortsighted, given the dire need of many destinations in England to improve local infrastructure that tourists rely on, including clean bathing water and public transport . In Manchester and Liverpool , businesses have implemented voluntary overnight charges on visitors, in the absence of the statutory basis to implement compulsory levies.

Many other English towns and cities will probably follow their lead. Tourism taxes are something we might all have to consider budgeting for in our future travel plans, wherever we choose to visit.

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How to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist for Shopping? [2023]
Requirements to get Tax Refund in USA as Tourist or Resident. ... I was in Florida for 2 weeks, I purchased an Iphone 11 Max Pro, 2 Airpods, and many electronic products from Best Buy at millenia store orlando. and I asked the people there, a staff at apple store how can i claim the tax back. He mention that I can claim either at the airport ...
COMPLETE guide to visitor tax refunds in the USA [2024]
Requirements for a refund include presenting original receipts, meeting minimum purchase amounts, making purchases within 30 days of departure, and taking the items out of the U.S. Foreign visitors to the U.S., including those on B1 and B2 visas, contribute to the 79 million international tourists annually. While shopping, they pay sales tax ...
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Florida Hotels and Places to Stay. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Answer 1 of 4: Most countries have a sales tax refund scheme for tourists from other countries. Does Florida have a way for tourists to apply for a sales tax refund.
I am visiting from another country. Can I get a refund of sales taxes
In the United States, sales tax is imposed at the point of transfer of title or possession. Therefore, if a non-resident visitor to the United States purchases any taxable items and takes possession of the goods at the retailer's location, sales tax is due and there is generally no refund of the sales tax paid simply because the goods will be ...
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You will need to show original retail receipts that total a minimum of $12 in sales taxes per store location. Visit one of many "Texas Tax Back" offices to get refunds before you leave the state. Refunds require your passport and a photo ID, along with a valid tourist visa if applicable.
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Florida Department of Revenue. Refund Process. PO Box 6490. Tallahassee, FL 32314-6490. Fax number: 850-410-2526. Note: Reemployment tax overpayments are automatically refunded. If you have questions or are due a reemployment tax refund, contact the Department's Refund Process at 850-617-8585.
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State sales tax ranges from nearly 3 to 7.5 percent nationally. However, counties and cities can levy additional sales taxes. So if you are making a large purchase, it pays to ask about the sales tax in advance. (It will also be printed on your sales receipt.) When you are securing a service you might also be charged a tax.
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If you file Form 1040-NR, you have the option of providing an alternative mailing address outside the United States for the refund check. If you move or change the physical address where a paper check will be mailed, make sure you file Form 8822, ... Nonresident aliens who request a refund of tax withheld on a Form 1042-S, Foreign Person's U.S ...
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Louisiana tax free shopping program - Individuals traveling in the US for less than 90 days and who hold a foreign passport, US Visitor's Visa and an international transportation ticket to leave the country can apply for a refund on sales tax paid at a few qualifying retailers. Learn more at the Louisiana Tax Free Shopping Program website.
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With tax season upon us, ... With data put together from LendingTree for the tax year 2021, residents of Wyoming, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington, D.C., received the largest average refund, at over $5,000. On the flip side, for the same tax year, residents of Maine, West Virginia and Vermont received the smallest average refunds — with ...
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Florida Department of Revenue - The Florida Department of Revenue has three primary lines of business: (1) Administer tax law for 36 taxes and fees, processing nearly $37.5 billion and more than 10 million tax filings annually; (2) Enforce child support law on behalf of about 1,025,000 children with $1.26 billion collected in FY 06/07; (3) Oversee property tax administration involving 10.9 ...
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Tourist Development Taxes
Refunds. ***If you have any questions regarding your refund, please email [email protected] or call 727-464-5007. Email the completed application and supporting documentation to [email protected] or send via mail to: Pinellas County Tax Collector.
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And the process is fairly easy: Bring your passport along on your shopping trip (a photo of your passport should work), get the necessary documents from the retailer, and file your paperwork at the airport, port, or border when you leave. In Europe, standard European Union Value-Added Tax ranges from 8 to 27 percent per country.
Florida Dept. of Revenue
Florida Department of Revenue - The Florida Department of Revenue has three primary lines of business: (1) Administer tax law for 36 taxes and fees, processing nearly $37.5 billion and more than 10 million tax filings annually; (2) Enforce child support law on behalf of about 1,025,000 children with $1.26 billion collected in FY 06/07; (3) Oversee property tax administration involving 10.9 ...
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