What do both professional athletes and retired citizens have in common? Well, if they live in Florida, they do not have to pay state income tax. But this fact is also true of anyone who lives in the state of Florida. Currently, the state of Florida has zero income tax. This means big bucks weigh more to athletes who make hundreds of thousands of dollars, and even millions. They get to keep more of their money. This is equally significant to senior citizens who have limited incomes or are existing on strict retirement incomes. Their money stretches farther than if they were to live in another state. Read or download the Tampa Bay Times article Florida a Strong Draw for Northerners Taxed to the Hilt.
Currently, nine states have zero income tax, Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, New Hampshire and Tennessee. Those last two states, do tax investment income and interest. Moving north, just outside of the state of Florida to Alabama with 2-6% or Georgia at 1-6% state income tax, households pay a percent of their income to the state through annual state taxes.
Many people look for retirement in a warm and sunny spot to ease the aches and pains of getting older hoping to eschew battling heavy winters. They will also find Florida offers a respite for their finances while living on a fixed income. Why do you think forty one of our United States do have their residents file a state income tax? Why do you think that Florida does not have a state income tax? Do the research and look it up, why does the state not encumber their residents with a state income tax? If Florida did decide to tax its residents, what should the money be used for? Extension: Pen a letter to the Florida legislature (select a representative or senator who represents your town, of which you are a constituent) on your opinion of having a state tax. Be sure to support your ideas with at least three facts (always giving credit). When you share your opinion, provide how your household are (would be) affected. When writing to a member of Congress, ensure that you have titled your letter appropriately, you may need to look up the correct way to address your intended. Give an accurate return address and you may just receive a letter in return. Florida Literacy Standards: SS.912.FL.1.6: Explain that taxes are paid to federal, state, and local governments to fund government goods and services and transfer payments from government to individuals and that the major types of taxes are income taxes, payroll (Social Security) taxes, property taxes, and sales taxes. SS.912.FL.1.7: Discuss how people’s sources of income, amount of income, as well as the amount and type of spending affect the types and amounts of taxes paid. |
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January 2022
CategoriesAuthorDeborah Kozdras, Ph.D. |