Sales Tax Consulting in Fort Lauderdale

Multi-State Tobacco & Excise Tax Advisory for Wholesalers, Manufacturers & Distributors

Tobacco Tax Refund, Inc is a tax consulting firm founded by CPAs and attorneys whose practice centers on tobacco excise tax and alcoholic beverage tax issues. We serve wholesalers, distributors, and retailers throughout Fort Lauderdale and across the nation, handling everything from initial refund applications to audit defense before state revenue agencies and the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco.

Our primary focus is on multi-state wholesale tobacco tax. We represent taxpayers at every stage of a tax controversy, whether that begins with a refund claim, a licensing matter, or an audit notice. We can engage at any point in the process, before any state agency or local taxing authority.

What Our Sales Tax Consulting Service Covers

Our work starts with a meticulous review of historical state tax returns. Some clients discover overpayments only after we examine past filings in detail, and those reviews have produced refund claims amounting to millions of dollars. The historical review is where we start, not where we finish.

From there, our tobacco tax consulting extends into ongoing compliance guidance. Tobacco tax law changes frequently at the federal, state, and local levels, and we keep clients current on those changes so they’re better prepared for the next filing or audit cycle.

Our services include, but aren't limited to:

• Excise tax refund claims: Filing claims for overpaid tobacco and alcoholic beverage taxes in any state where a client has exposure
• Refund denial resolution: Challenging denials through administrative appeals and controversy proceedings
• Audit defense: Representing clients before state agencies from the initial notice through resolution
• Compliance guidance: Advising on reporting obligations, permit requirements, and tax law updates across multiple states
• Historical return review: Identifying overlooked refund opportunities in prior-year filings
• License issues: Whether you need help obtaining or keeping a license, our team can support you

Why Tobacco Businesses Choose Tobacco Tax Refund, Inc

Our firm focuses on multi-state wholesale tobacco tax issues. That depth of focus means we understand how regulatory frameworks differ across states, how those differences create refund opportunities, and how to build a defense when a state agency disagrees. Our partners bring a collective 50 years of accounting and legal experience to every matter, and our track record includes refund claims amounting to millions of dollars for clients of every size.

We work closely with each client to understand their business and develop a practical strategy focused on protecting their interests and resolving their tax concerns.

Florida’s Tobacco Excise Tax: What Fort Lauderdale Businesses Should Know

Florida imposes an excise tax on other tobacco products (OTP) equal to 85% of the wholesale sales price, composed of a 60% surcharge and a 25% tax. This tax is payable by distributors and administered by the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco within the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Retail sales to consumers are separately subject to Florida’s standard sales and use tax.

Wholesale dealers must file monthly excise tax reports through the Division’s Electronic Data Submission (EDS) system. Depending on their role, tobacco businesses may need a Retail Tobacco Products Dealer permit or a Tobacco Wholesale Dealer/Distributor permit. Florida discontinued the separate Cigar Wholesale Dealer/Distributor permit in 2025, so businesses that distribute cigars only to licensed retailers no longer need to hold that permit.

Tobacco Tax Refunds & Credits

Florida law provides for refunds or credits of tobacco taxes in certain circumstances. For example, a distributor may be entitled to a refund or credit when taxed tobacco products are sold, shipped, or transported outside Florida, returned to the manufacturer, or destroyed, subject to applicable requirements and supporting documentation. 

Florida also defines the taxable wholesale sales price broadly. The current definition includes charges for transportation and delivery, federal excise tax, and other specified charges. Businesses that believe they may have overpaid tobacco taxes should review their historical filings, supporting records, and the applicable law for the relevant filing periods. Our team can help evaluate potential refund or credit opportunities and assist with the documentation and filing process.

Start with a Free Consultation with Our Fort Lauderdale Sales Tax Consulting Team

We work with companies of every size, from small independent distributors to global, publicly traded tobacco companies. Whatever your situation, the first conversation costs nothing. A free consultation lets you describe your tax position and hear whether we see a potential path to a refund or a stronger compliance posture before you commit to anything.