Boat Registration: Cheaper State= Florida or Texas?

[PUDDLE JUMPER II]

I am a resident of Texas + Florida--- purchasing a 45' Boat at the end of this year--- I wonder which state is cheaper on Sales Tax, and Registration Fees?? I am sure there are folks on here from both states with experience to guide us... Hoping to learn from you all-- please let us know?

Thomas & Kelly-Sue

[s/v 'Faith']

What year is the boat?

Florida has an antique registration for $4.... It may have gone up to $6 now....

My boat qualifies, I paid much more for my 3 dingies then my boat.

[PUDDLE JUMPER II]

30 year old boat probably... What is the Sales Tax for FLa? and what is the "Antique" age limitations?

[letsgetsailing3]

You should register the boat in the state you're going to keep it in.

Not sure about Texas, but in Florida it needs to be registered there if you keep it there more than 90 days.

[Hudson Force]

To qualify for the antique vessel status and nominal annual registration fee in Florida the boat and it's auxiliary engine must be at least thirty years old.

[PUDDLE JUMPER II]

I was trying to dodge 'exorbitant' Sales Tax... and since I have the option of both-- was looking for the smarter choice...

[Hudson Force]

Originally Posted by Evelyn L II

I was trying to dodge 'exorbitant' Sales Tax..............

This tax may seem "exorbitant"; however, without a state income tax these sales taxes represent much of the funding for the state. You may avoid the tax by having the boat exempted with it's removal from the state within a designated period from the sale. Be careful not to use this site for advice in supporting an illegal activity, but I doubt that's your intention.

[Dave852]

Florida is 6% with a maximum of $18k.

[letsgetsailing3]

In Texas, the sales tax is 6.25%, and in Florida, it's 6%.

You might as well just register it where you're going to keep it.