January 19, 2012
Press Release 12-01
Contact: Shari Bruns (media inquiries only)
(850) 651-7669
Ft. Walton Beach—The Okaloosa County Tax Collector Field Service Department is in the process of working with local business owners in issuing Business Tax Receipts (BTR), formally known as an Occupational License. There are currently 18,463 active BTRs in Okaloosa County; however, at this time 4,000 remain delinquent. Ben Anderson, Tax Collector, states that many business owners are not aware that their BTRs have expired.
Joshua Allen, Director of Field Services, says that Field Agents will call on those businesses and identify themselves as “Deputy Tax Collectors.” He goes on to explain, “Per Florida Statute 197.103: Tax Collectors may appoint deputies to act on their behalf in carrying out the duties prescribed by law.” Allen says that the Field Agents will fully identify themselves and their department and only call during the business hours of 8am – 5pm, Monday through Friday.
The Local Business Tax is imposed for the privilege of doing business in Okaloosa County. Persons who provide merchandise, entertainment, or services to the public, even if only a one-person company or home-based business, must obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt before they can conduct business. Anderson explains that any person doing business in Okaloosa County must obtain an Okaloosa County Local Business Tax Receipt.
For those whose Business Tax Receipt has expired, Anderson asks that it be renewed as soon as possible to avoid additional penalties. Business Tax Receipts can be paid at any Okaloosa County Tax Collector Branch, online at www.OkaloosaTax.com, or by phone at 651-7300. Inquiries should be directed to Joshua Allen, Director of Field Services or JAllen@OkaloosaTax.com.