Articles in Category: 'Florida TaxWatch'
Tax Holiday a Win-Win for Retailers, Consumers
Timing is everything, and savvy shoppers can stretch their dollars beginning Friday the 13th.
Washington Readies 'Biggest Tax Hikes in History'
If you're planning on dying anytime soon, tax advisers say it would be best to do it before Jan. 1.
The so-called "death tax" returns with a vengeance next year, bringing a 55 percent top tax rate on estates valued at more than $1 million. That compares to the current rate of 0 percent on estates up to $3.5 million.
Florida Gives Another Break to Tax Scofflaws
Amnesty may carry a negative connotation when it comes to immigration, but it turns positive when applied to taxes. At least some people think so.
Beginning Thursday, the state of Florida will waive penalties on back taxes owed by businesses and individuals. During a three-month window closing Sept. 30, all applicable interest fees also will be cut in half.
A similar tax-amnesty program recouped $260 million in previously lost revenue in 2003. This year's version, coming in tighter economic times, is projected to generate up to $100 million.
Hurricane CAT Fund Safe For Now
1 commentThe announcement that the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Fund can borrow $15.9 billion to supplement its own funds and meet its financial responsibilities for the upcoming hurricane season is being met with sighs of relief.
The insurance industry and critics of the state’s insurance regulation policies say the news that the fund, which reimburses insurers for hurricane damages, can pay a total of $25.4 billion in claims is a promising sign for Florida.
Blue Sky Savings
Senate Bill 1238 would disperse the 1,266-employee DMS by shifting many of its functions into the Department of Financial Services, while creating a new Agency for Asset Management to be housed temporarily under the Department of Environmental Protection.
It's All About the Money
Think twice before you bet against the governor's Seminole gambling compact.
Now, I'm not predicting the Florida Legislature is going to OK the deal. We've got too many miles to go, too much major legislation still in committee. It's just that I'm catching some of the nervous, where's-the-money-gonna-come-from buzz.
Less Taxing
CORPORATE TAX: Gov. Charlie Crist wants to lower the business tax from 5.4 percent to 4 percent. Business leaders say that's a good start, but more can be done.
UNEMPLOYMENT TAX: Under a deal struck by Republican legislative leaders and leading business groups, lawmakers hope to delay most of the pain for two years.
