Cape Coral Businesses & Landlords: April 1st Deadline for Tangible Personal Property Tax Returns

Cape Coral businesses and landlords renting real property must remember their annual obligation to file Tangible Personal Property Tax Returns with the Lee County Property Appraiser. These taxes, known as ad valorem taxes, apply to various business assets and rental unit furnishings.

This tax impacts businesses for items like furnishings, fixtures, signs, supplies, and equipment used in their operations. For landlords, it covers furnishings and appliances provided in rental units. Florida Statute 193.052 mandates that anyone possessing these assets on January 1 of each year must file a Tangible Personal Property Tax Return (DR-405).

The filing deadline for the DR-405 form is April 1 annually. Failure to file on time or not filing at all results in penalties and additional costs. Business owners in Lee County typically receive a tangible personal property tax notice. Those who do not receive a notice can view their bill online through the Property Tax page.

The Lee County Tax Collector emphasizes the importance of paying these taxes. Failure to do so can lead to a warrant being filed, delinquent penalties, collection costs, and the potential loss of property. Businesses or individuals who no longer operate a business or rent their real property should visit the Property Appraiser’s website to update their records and discuss removing their accounts from future tax rolls.

To print a tax bill online, residents can visit the Property Tax page, enter their name, address, or account number, select their listing, and then click "VIEW" to see and print the bill as a PDF.