County Council Eliminates Communications Services Tax

Posted On: August 31, 2023

In an effort to reduce taxes on its residents, the Volusia County Council convened in a special session on Aug. 30 and voted to eliminate the Communications Services Tax (CST) for those residing in unincorporated areas. Collectively, this will result in more than $3 million in tax savings for those who reside in unincorporated areas. The decision now places Volusia County alongside Duval County as the only two in Florida exempting unincorporated residents from the CST.

The CST, which has been in effect since 2002, is a levy imposed on various communication services within the state, including cable and satellite television, video and music streaming, telephone services, and mobile communications, will no longer be a financial burden for the unincorporated residents of Volusia County starting Jan. 1, 2024.

Recognizing the opportunity for the tax to be eliminated by Jan. 1, 2024, the County Council took the proactive measure of holding the Aug. 30 special meeting in order to submit the required filing to the State by Aug. 31.

The vote by the Volusia County Council underscores its commitment to alleviating the financial burdens of its residents and fostering an environment conducive to economic well-being. As the CST becomes a thing of the past for unincorporated residents, this is another decision set forth by the council in setting an example for responsible governance and thoughtful financial planning.