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tax collector delivers proposed budget to okaloosa residents
June 8, 2010
Ft. Walton Beach— June 8, 2010 Tax Collector’s Office conducts county wide budget briefings.
Okaloosa County Tax Collector Chris Hughes will deliver budget briefings to county residents prior to submitting the final budget to the Florida Department of Revenue August 2, 2010.
Each budget briefing will give Okaloosa County residents a chance to learn how the Tax Office receives and disperses fees during a fiscal year. Hughes says, “No other County or Constitutional budget is more open, transparent, or easily understood than that of the Tax Collector.”
To ensure the budget information is available to as many residents as are interested, briefings will be held in Ft. Walton Beach, Destin, Crestview and Niceville. The dates and times are as follows:
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Tuesday, June 15th
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FWB
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9:30am
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City Council Chambers
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Tuesday, June 15th
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Niceville
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6:00pm
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City Council Chambers
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Wednesday, June 16th
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Destin
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10:00am
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Destin Community Center
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Wednesday, June 16th
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Crestview
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3:00pm
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Council Chambers
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Citizens who are unable to attend the budget presentation in their area can visit www.okaloosatax.com where the proposed budget will be available by June 16, 2010. The dates and times of the presentations will also be available on-line.
Tax Collector’s Office Goes Paperless with Bill Express
June 8, 2010
Ft. Walton Beach— The Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office is once again taking the lead with innovative services for the citizens of Okaloosa County. Tax Collector Chris Hughes is introducing “Bill Express” where taxpayers may receive their property tax bill directly to their email “in box.” Hughes says, “In the world today, it’s more important than ever to conduct our business in an eco-friendly way, all the while saving taxpayers money. Our office has sought for ways to improve customer service and allowing them to receive and pay their taxes from home is just another way we are exceeding customer service expectations.”
The Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office is one of the first Tax Collector Offices in the State of Florida and in the nation to offer paperless billing for property taxes. Hughes says, “Because of the cost savings, I would love to see everyone go paperless. It’s a simple process and serves many purposes. Not only does it save on paper and printing costs, but it is convenient and environmentally friendly!”
Hughes invites citizens to receive and pay their tax bills “Online,” not “In Line” using “Bill Express.” The June installment property tax bills have been mailed out to Okaloosa County property owners. In the bill there is an insert promoting “Bill Express” and encouraging taxpayers to register their email addresses so they can begin receiving their property tax bills via email. Hughes says, “We already offer on-line payment options, but now we’re improving upon that by offering on-line billing.”
To receive the next tax bill via email, there are 3 simple steps:
2. Enter your account number
3. Click “Bills by Email”
Once the email address is confirmed, the e-bills will automatically begin going to your email “in-box” every billing cycle. Taxpayers can pay their bill with E-Check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Please note that credit card companies will charge a convenience fee for use of their credit or debit card.
E-billing reduces current costs of bill issuers. Hughes says, “When you consider the cost of printing and the volume of paper our office has to use to mail bills, plus postage, it only makes sense to push Bill Express.” He continues, “Research has shown that by switching to electronic bills, statements and payments, the average household saves 6.6 pounds of paper per year and reduces greenhouse gas emissions as well as saves trees. Besides, it is safe and convenient.”
Bill Express can be accessed through the Tax Collector’s web site: www.okaloosatax.com, or directly by visiting: www.okaloosa.billexpress.net. Hughes concludes by saying, “Our office will continue to seek ways to increase customer savings without compromising services.”
BidOkaloosa.com: Tax Collector’s Internet Tax Sale Site Open May 11, 2010
Ft. Walton Beach—BidOkaloosa.com, the auction website of Okaloosa County’s annual Internet Tax Certificate Sale, is officially open. Tax Collector Chris Hughes has announced that this year’s sale will be held online June 1.
Hughes encourages potential investors to log on to the site now to take full advantage of the Internet platform’s benefits which include demonstrations, procedural information, links to public records and the delinquent tax advertising list. Bidders can also pre-register and submit bids on the site before the actual event begins. An option added last year allows the bidder to see the number of submitted bids. The on-line site is updated every day at 3 a.m.
Tax certificates are a first lien on real estate. Investors purchase certificates by paying off the tax debt, which includes interest and other fees. The purchaser bids on an interest rate which determines the pay back of the investment. The sale is conducted in a “reverse auction” style. A parcel is auctioned off starting at 18 percent interest per annum (the maximum rate allowed by Florida law) and bid down in quarter-percent increments. The bidder who offers the lowest interest rate on the debt wins the certificate.
Investors can place bids via their personal computers from the privacy of their homes or offices instead of congregating at a designated location with an auctioneer. The public libraries in Ft. Walton Beach, Crestview, Niceville, Destin and Mary Esther have agreed to provide Internet access to bidders as well.
Hughes is credited with designing and implementing the nation’s first live Internet lien auction five years ago. The successful concept has been copied throughout the state and by other governing bodies across the country.
“The results of electronic tax sales are significant,” said Hughes. “The benefits include easier bidder access from anywhere in the world; increased participation; greater competition generating lower interest rates for delinquent property owner repayment; streamlined tax office operations; decreased manpower overtime; quicker collection and distribution of funds to services.”
In order to participate in the sale, bidders will receive a personal ID and password, be required to complete an IRS Form W-9, submit a security deposit and make certificate purchases through ACH (Automated Clearinghouse) Debit.
As prescribed by law, the certificates will be sold in sequential order, independent of every other tax certificate the day of the sale.
To protect the privacy of BidOkaloosa.com users, the site is safeguarded by the industry’s top firewalls, intrusion detection systems, virus protection software and system monitoring programs. In addition, internal controls have been set up for transaction account auditing as well as controls to audit even Grant Street Group’s performance, the Pittsburgh, PA firm contracted to conduct the live auction.
The required published advertisement of delinquent parcels appears in the Crestview News Bulletin May 12, 19 and 26, 2010 editions. Copies are available at all tax office locations. The list is also available at www.okaloosatax.com.
Delinquent taxpayers have until 5:00 p.m., Friday, May 28, 2010 to make payment on their account or a certificate will be issued June 1, 2010. Payment must be made by cash, cashier’s check, money order or by credit card. Hughes also reminds citizens that May 28th is the final day payments can be made via the website at www.okaloosatax.com. The Internet site will accept payments only until 5:00 p.m. The site will reject any payments received after that time.
Installment Plan Application Deadline April 30, 2010
April 22, 2010
With the April 30, 2010 property tax deadline quickly approaching, Okaloosa County Tax Collector Chris Hughes encourages taxpayers to take advantage of the Installment Plan. Hughes says, “For those who do not pay into their escrow, one of the benefits of using the Installment Plan is that taxpayers can spread out tax payments over a one year period rather than having to pay one lump sum.” To participate in the installment plan, taxpayers must complete an Installment Application and have estimated taxes due of more than $100. The application can be found on the Tax Collector’s website: www.okaloosatax.com. Finally, per Florida Statute, the application must be received in the Tax Collector’s office no later than April 30.
Applications can be mailed to:
Okaloosa County Tax Collector
73 Eglin Pkwy. Suite 111
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
By making the first payment by the June 30 deadline, you are automatically enrolled in the plan. Continued participation is required for that tax year. Annual renewal is automatic as long as the June payment is made each year. The payments will apply to next year's estimated taxes.
Those who choose the installment method will pay based on an estimated tax equal to the actual taxes for the previous year. The payment schedule is:
· 1st Installment Due by June 30 - 1/4 the total estimated taxes discounted 6%.
· 2nd Installment Due by September 30 - 1/4 the total estimated taxes discounted 4.5%.
· 3rd Installment Due by December 31 - 1/4 the total estimated taxes plus 1/2 of any adjustment for actual tax liability discounted 3%.
· 4th Installment Due by March 31 - 1/4 the total estimated taxes plus the balance of any adjustment for actual tax liability.
Delinquent installment payments must be paid in full with the next installment. Any amount remaining unpaid on April 1 of the following year is treated as delinquent. Hughes says, “This installment program should ease the burden on taxpayers by allowing them to space out their payments and it also rewards them for early payments.” Re-application is not necessary if you participated in the pre-payment installment plan for the previous year.
DHSMV to close FWB and Crestview Driver License Offices
April 5, 2010
Ft. Walton Beach, FL – The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has contacted the Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office about upcoming closures their department will be implementing in Okaloosa County. The Department plans to close its Fort Walton Beach Driver License office at close of business on Sept. 30 and its Crestview office next year as part of a statewide plan for county tax collectors to provide Driver License services. With the closure of these offices, there will no longer be any state operated Driver License offices in Okaloosa County. Tax collectors in 45 counties, to include Okaloosa County, already offer Driver License services in 123 offices across the state. Tax collectors also already provide vehicle tag and title services at their offices and by offering Driver License services, tax collectors expand on the partnership that already exists between the DHSMV and county tax collectors.
"We appreciate the growing partnership we share with The Honorable Chris Hughes and his staff," said Division of Driver Licenses Director Sandra Lambert. "Their willingness to assist customers with excellent service will ensure motorists are provided the best possible service in convenient locations."
Tax Collector Chris Hughes says," Three years ago I was told these closures were a real possibility. Then, in 2008, DHSMV leaders asked if I would take over Driver License services when they closed, including absorbing their existing employees. To do so I would have to be proactive and prepare our staff for these changes."
Through careful planning and budgeting, Hughes has made available limited Driver License services in three OCTC offices around the county. Hughes says, "I want to ensure the citizens of this county don’t have to drive to Pensacola to get their driver license. That would be a burden on so many."
The Governor and the legislature have both budgeted for the closing of certain DHSMV offices around the state. This move is one they initiated with the understanding that Tax Collector offices would eventually provide Driver License services. Hughes says, "Because of this news, I did not wait to prepare for the DHSMV to close their offices. I began budgeting and preparing our staff to take on more Driver License responsibilities through our Niceville, Destin and Ft. Walton Beach offices."
According to DHSMV Executive Director Julie Jones, the state currently offers Driver license services in two Okaloosa county locations. The locations and number of customers served on an annual basis are: Crestview - 35,400 and in Ft. Walton Beach - 86,300.
Hughes said thatto take on expanded DL services will require some growing pains. He continues, "Our staff is trained and fully capable of handling the limited DL services we currently provide and because we are working closely with the DHSMV to transition their services to our offices, no void will be left by them closing shop."
Director Jones says the DHSMV has offered the Tax Collector their equipment with a free ‘refresh’ for compliance purposes. Hughes says, "That offer comes if I can absorb their existing, local staff and given that both their offices did over 100,000 transactions last year, I will need the additional personnel to handle the case load." He goes on to say, "That move alone will save the tax payers tens of thousands of dollars in training costs because those folks are already experienced on the job."
Hughes says, "It continues to be our goal to provide the citizens of this county the best in customer service. Taking on Driver License services is just another way we can take a burden off of our customers. One can handle their property tax business, automobile registrations and Driver License needs in one stop." Hughes continues, "Since we began offering limited Driver License services in Niceville back in 2006, Destin in 2007 and FWB in 2009, I’ve been referring to our services a ‘one stop shop’. After we acquire the DL offices, we will be an all encompassing ‘one stop shop’ because we will expand from limited to full service in Ft. Walton Beach and in Crestview." Limited Driver License services provides for everything except driving tests and commercial licenses.
Tax Collector Hughes says this situation can be a "win-win" for all involved. Hughes says, "Tax payers won’t have to leave the county for DL services and their tax dollars will be protected because our office began preparing for this transition 3 years ago." He continues, "We continually strive to be efficient while offering superior customer service. Moving Driver License services under our umbrella of other services simply makes sense. When someone needs torenew their tag on or before their birthday, they can also renew their driver license if needed.
Our ‘one stop shop’ will keep people from having to drive from location to location tending to their automobile and driving business, especially now that the Real ID Act has gone into effect."
As of January 1, 2010, Florida has new requirements for everyone who applies for a driver license or identification card, new or renewals. Customers wishing to obtain a driver license or ID card must bring documents to show proof of: 1) identification, 2) Social Security number and 3) residential address (two items). Customers who have legally changed their names must bring additional documentation. To find out exactly what one needs to take to conduct this business, visit:www.GatherGoGet.com.
Hughes says, "The more informed our customers are concerning what is now required, the happier our customers are and that is what this job is all about - customer satisfaction."
Important Facts about obtaining a new or renewed driver license or ID card:
· Florida residents may be eligible to renew their driver license online (visit www.GoRenew.com) or by mail one time between office visits. Following this option, the next renewal must be in person, at which time the required documentation must be provided.
· If Florida motorists and ID card holders do not visit a DL office by 12/1/2014 or 12/1/2017 (depending on their birthday) and present required documentation for their new card, they will not be allowed to board a commercial flight or enter a federal building. Residents born after 12/1/1964 with a current FL driver license or ID card will continue to be a valid form of ID until it expires or until 12/1/2014. Residents born before 12/1/1964 will have until 12/1/2017.
Tax Collector’s Website Open During Good Friday Holiday
Ft. Walton Beach—Okaloosa County Tax Collector Chris Hughes would like to wish everyone a blessed Easter weekend and remind Okaloosa county residents that although his offices will be closed Friday, April 2, 2010 in observance of Good Friday, customers can still conduct business online at www.okaloosatax.com .
Hughes says customers can process property tax payments, vehicle and vessel registration transactions, purchase hunting and fishing licenses and apply for county occupational licenses on the website. VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted for payments. All transactions processed on the website are secure and private via the Internet. The tax offices in Crestview, Ft. Walton Beach, Niceville, Destin and on Eglin Air Force Base will resume regular business hours on Monday, April 5, 2010.
Hughes Encourages Driver License Awareness
March 18, 2010
Ft. Walton Beach, FL – As of January 1, 2010, Floridians obtaining a new driver license / I.D. card are now required to show: 1) Certified Identification, 2) Original Social Security Card and 3)Two items showing residential address. This new requirement is a result of the Federal Real ID Act of 2005 and Florida is one of the first states in the country to provide residents with an even more secure identification document.
Tax Collector Chris Hughes says, “Because the OCTC offers limited driver license services, we are privy to the frustration some of our customers have felt because they weren’t aware of the changes.” Hughes goes on to say, “The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on an advertising campaign that began last summer, but it’s all for naught if we’re still experiencing a “turn away” rate of 80% in parts of the state. That’s why we have taken it upon ourselves to further educate Okaloosa county residents of this new requirement. Our office is recognized as one of the nation’s best in customer service because we care about our customers’ satisfaction. Therefore, if we can save someone an extra trip to our office, we’re going to do it.”
The Real ID Act mandates were handed down by the Federal Government in response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. These changes enhance efforts to minimize fraud and identity theft. Hughes says, “We’re doing as much as we can to remove the hassle factor. As long as those getting new licenses understand the new requirements, the process should be a smooth one.” Hughes continues, “Citizens should visit: www.okaloosatax.com and click on the link: GATHER. GO. GET. This link will provide a checklist of information to print out so the proper documents can be collected before coming to our office.” Hughes adds, “Renewing by mail or online is available for those who qualify.”
Important Facts:
· Florida residents are allowed to renew their driver license online or by mail only one time. Following this option, the next renewal must be in person, at which time the required documentation must be provided.
· If Florida motorists and ID card holders do not visit a DL office by 12/1/2014 or 12/1/2017 (depending on their birthday) and present required documentation for their new card, they will not be allowed to board a commercial flight or enter a federal building. Residents born after 12/1/1964 with a current FL driver license or ID card will continue to be a valid form of ID until it expires or until 12/1/2014. Residents born before 12/1/1964 will have until 12/1/2017.
Hughes Reminds Citizens of Important Local Tax Dates
March 17, 2010
Ft. Walton Beach, FL – Okaloosa County Tax Collector Chris Hughes is reminding citizens that this month, the FULL AMOUNT of Real Estate Property Taxes is due and Tangible Personal Property Taxes are due. Real Estate Property taxes not paid by March 31 become delinquent and begin accruing 3% interest and advertising charges, which are added to the gross amount due.
Tangible Personal Property is any tangible item other than real estate used in a business. This includes furniture, fixtures, machinery, equipment, appliances, tools, signs, leasehold improvements, supplies, leased equipment, and any other assets used by the business. Tangible Personal Property Taxes not paid by March 31 become delinquent and begin accruing 1.5% monthly interest and a late penalty, which are added to the gross amount.
Mr. Hughes adds, “Delinquent payments must be in certified funds and received in our office on or before the last working day of the month to be considered paid in that month.” Note: Postmark date is not proof of payment.
Hughes notes that “The Property Tax Installment Plan is available for the 2010 taxes. This is a way for citizens to spread out their payments so it doesn’t seem so overwhelming during these hard economic times.” Applications for the Installment Plan are accepted until April 30, 2010. The Installment Plan divides your taxes into four (4) payments – two (2) advance payments due June and September and two (2) during the tax payment period, December and March. The Installment Plan provides for a little over 3% discount and adds the convenience of spreading out payments instead of one lump sum payment. Paying your taxes in full in November provides for a 4% discount.
Finally, Hughes says, “If you are already enrolled in the plan, there is no need to re-apply because renewal is automatic.” Also, enrollment isn’t complete until the first payment is received in the Tax Collector’s office on or before June 30, 2010. If the first payment is not made by June 30, 2010, your enrollment will terminate. Once enrolled, participation is required for the entire tax year. A missed payment will result in the loss of discount for that payment period. The Installment Plan Application is available for download at: www.okaloosatax.com
Important Dates:
March 31 – Full amount due on Real Estate Property Taxes
March 31 – Tangible Personal Property Taxes Due
March 31 – Fourth (4th) and final Installment Payment Due
April 30 - 2010 Installment Plan Applications are due
Note: Renew vehicle registration by midnight of your birthday
If your mailing address has changed, in addition to notifying the United States Postal Service you must also notify the Property Appraiser, in writing with a signature.
Hughes Endorses TransparencyFlorida.gov
January 21, 2010
Ft. Walton Beach, FL – TransparencyFlorida.gov was unveiled by the Florida Legislature on January 20. This web site essentially puts Florida's checkbook on-line so Floridians can view how their tax dollars are being spent by state government agencies. Okaloosa County Tax Collector Chris Hughes endorsed the Legislature's move to have government spending moved into the "Sunshine." Hughes says, "This is smart move by the Legislature because it gives citizens an opportunity to have input on how their money is being used." Hughes continues, "This tax collector's office has had that same information available on-line, of which the past 10 years is included, so I'm glad to see this trend take hold at the state level."
TransparencyFlorida.gov includes many helpful tutorials throughout the website which includes frequently asked questions and a glossary of terms used by legislators.
Hughes says that it is imperative for citizens to understand how the budget process works, but to also understand how the spending is allocated. Last year Hughes was the only Constitutional Officer in Okaloosa County to conduct budget presentations throughout the county. The budget presentations allowed taxpayers to see what monies went where and why. Hughes says, "Our presentations went into more detail and had more information available than any other Constitutional Office. If anyone understands the importance of transparency, it's me and this office. Citizens have called, emailed, sent notes and filled out comment cards saying how pleased they are with our transparency, so they most certainly will be happy with this new bill by the Legislature."
Hughes encourages all government offices to make their expenditures available to the public as a good faith effort to show taxpayers exactly where tax dollars are being spent. Hughes says, "It's the tax payer's money therefore they need access to everything." Hughes concludes that by visiting www.okaloosatax.com citizens can conduct tax business, purchase permits, or view the budget. A slide show from the budget presentations along with a video can be seen on the website as well.
Tax Collector’s Website Open During Holiday
Ft. Walton Beach—Okaloosa County Tax Collector Chris Hughes reminds citizens that although his offices will be closed Monday, January 18, 2010 in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. day, customers can still conduct business online at www.okaloosatax.com .
Citizens can process property tax payments, vehicle and vessel registration transactions, purchase hunting and fishing licenses and apply for county occupational licenses on the website. VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted for payments.
All transactions processed through the website are secure and private via the Internet.
The tax offices in Crestview, Ft. Walton Beach, Niceville, Destin and on Eglin Air Force Base will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, January 19, 2010.
Tax Collector’s Website Available During Christmas and New Year’s Holidays
Ft. Walton Beach—Okaloosa County Tax Collector Chris Hughes wants to wish everyone a blessed Christmas season and remind citizens that although his offices will be closed in observance of Christmas on Thursday and Friday, December 24 and 25 and on Friday, January 1st , customers can still conduct business online at www.okaloosatax.com .
On-line, customers can conduct the following transactions: property tax payments, vehicle and vessel registration, purchase hunting and fishing licenses and apply for county occupational licenses. VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted for payments.
All transactions processed via the website are secure and private via the Internet.
The tax offices in Crestview, Ft. Walton Beach, Niceville, Destin and on Eglin Air Force Base will resume regular business hours on Monday, December 28th and again on January 4th.
2009/2010 TAX COLLECTOR BUDGET REDUCED OVER 5%
August 4, 2009
Press Release 12-09
Contact: Chris Hughes, Okaloosa County Tax Collector
Crestview — The Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office presented their 2009/2010 budget to the Department of Revenue and then, today, to the Board of County Commissioners. After 3 years as the only Constitutional Office in Okaloosa County not to have a budget increase, Mr. Hughes sought to improve upon that achievement and lowered his budget by 5.2%. Hughes says he wanted to lower the budget without taking away from the award winning services customers have come to expect. He went on to say that the reductions were possible by eliminating non-reoccurring expenses, offering no overtime or extra compensation pay and by not hiring new personnel.
The Tax Collector’s office is the only Constitutional Office who presented a series of budget presentations throughout the county during May, giving residents an opportunity to have input on the budget process. As a result of those presentations, Tax Collector Chris Hughes responded whole-heartedly to citizens concerns in these dire economic times.
About the Okaloosa County Tax Collector:
The Okaloosa County Tax Collector is a constitutional office that collects and distributes nearly one- half billion dollars annually in taxes and fees.
The Tax Collector's Office:
DHSMV FEES TO SUBSTANTIALLY INCREASE ON SEPTEMBER 1, 2009
Ft. Walton Beach— June 25, 2009 The Okaloosa County Tax Collector’s Office wants Florida drivers and vehicle owners to know they will see substantial fee increases from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles beginning September 1, 2009. The increases were enacted into law by the 2009 Florida Legislature.
Tax Collector Chris Hughes says, "It is very important for citizens to know this increase is not being used for tax collector services. The last time tax collectors received money from an increase for state vehicle registration services happened in 1985. These fees will be remitted back to the State of Florida and will not stay locally.”
In an ongoing effort to be an educational resource for the citizens of Okaloosa County, Hughes is encouraging vehicle owners who have a birthday on or before November 30th of this year to renew their tags no later than August 31st to beat the fee increase. Hughes went on to say that the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles allows tag renewals up to three months in advance of your birth month. He also noted that vehicle owners can save more money with the two-year renewal available for most registrations.
Examples of the ESTIMATED fee increases are below:
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Florida License Plate renewals
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Regular Automobile
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Current Fees
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New Fees as of 9/1/09
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Up to 2,499 lbs.
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$28.10
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$46.65
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Up to 3,499 lbs
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$36.10
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$57.65
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3500 and over
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$46.10
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$71.65
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Florida Title Fees
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Current Fees
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New Fees as of 9/1/09
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Initial Registration Fee
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$100.00
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$225.00
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Title Fee (duplicate)
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$29.75
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$75.75
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Original/Replacement Plate Fee
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$10.00
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$28.00
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Florida Drivers License Fees
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Current Fees
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New Fees as of 9/1/09
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Original / Renewal Fee
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$32.25
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$54.25
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Replacement Fee
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$15.25
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$31.25
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Delinquent Fee
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$1.00
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$15.00
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For more information on the fee increases, go to www.flhsmv.gov/MotoristFees.htm. Please note that the chart of fees on that website does not include the various, additional state charges and local service fees.
At www.okaloosatax.com you can find estimated examples of the increased fees for Okaloosa County residents.
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