The basics
- Deadline: usually April 15, for the previous year’s income.
- No state income tax in Florida.
- Sales tax: 6% state plus a county surtax on most purchases (groceries and medicine are exempt).
W-2 or 1099: employee or contractor?
| W-2 (employee) | 1099 (contractor) | |
|---|---|---|
| Taxes withheld? | Yes, from every paycheck | No — you set money aside |
| Social Security and Medicare | Employer pays half | You pay the full 15.3% (self-employment tax) |
| Tip | Check your W-4 | Set aside 25–30% and pay quarterly |
If you work “on a 1099” in construction or cleaning and don’t set money aside, you can owe thousands in April. Keep receipts for work expenses (tools, mileage) — they reduce what you owe.
Why filing pays off (even with an ITIN)
- You may get a refund if too much was withheld, or credits for your children.
- It builds a record of compliance, which often matters in immigration cases.
- Banks and landlords ask for tax returns as proof of income.
Free tax prep
The IRS VITA program prepares your taxes for free if your income is moderate, and many Orlando sites help in Spanish. Find one at irs.gov or call 211.
Avoid preparers who charge a percentage of your refund, won’t sign your return, or deposit your refund into their own account.
If you buy a home: the homestead exemption
If you own the home you live in, you can claim the homestead exemption, which lowers your property taxes and caps how much they rise each year. Apply with your county property appraiser by March 1. You generally must be a citizen or permanent resident to qualify.
This guide is informational and is not a substitute for advice from a lawyer or other professional. Laws and requirements change — always confirm with the official source. See something out of date? Email us at hola@soyorlando.com.