Three years after the Florida Supreme Court overturned Hillsborough County’s transportation sales tax, funds collected during that time are now set to be refunded to eligible taxpayers.

A judge has granted final approval for the settlement, allowing a court-appointed administrator to begin issuing payments.

Background on the Transportation Sales Tax

The one-cent transportation sales tax was approved by Hillsborough County voters in 2018 to fund transportation improvements. However, it was challenged in court and ultimately ruled unconstitutional by the Florida Supreme Court in 2021.

By the time the tax was struck down, the county had collected approximately $589 million. Following the court’s decision, state lawmakers devised a plan to allocate the funds. The plan, included in the 2024 state budget and signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, designates $170 million for a settlement fund to refund taxpayers, alongside allocations for road improvements, a sales tax holiday, and legal expenses.

Who is Eligible for a Refund?

Eligible taxpayers can file claims for refunds based on proof of surtax payments, regardless of their place of residence. Here’s what you need to know:

• With Receipts or Proof of Purchases: Taxpayers may receive refunds equal to the amount of surtax they paid.
• Without Receipts: Taxpayers can claim up to $100 by demonstrating residency in Hillsborough County during the tax period (January 1, 2019 – March 15, 2021).

The tax was applied to most purchases already subject to the statewide sales and use tax, typically only on the first $5,000 of a transaction. Refund amounts will vary depending on the number of claims filed, as is standard in class action settlements. Any unclaimed funds will go toward extending the county’s sales surtax holiday.

How to File a Refund Claim

Eligible taxpayers can submit claims via the official settlement website, FLTaxRefund.com, even if they didn’t receive a notification.

• Deadline: Claims must be filed by December 31, 2024.
• Ineligible Claims: Individuals who have already received refunds or have pending requests with the Florida Department of Revenue are not eligible.

A call center is also available for questions at 1-888-715-9373.

When Will Payments Be Issued?

Payments are expected to begin in early 2025. Refunds will be distributed on a rolling basis, with the first round anticipated in the first quarter of the year. Exact payout dates will depend on the processing of claims.

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(Image credit: Fox 3 News Tampa Bay)