Have You Paid Your SunPass?
Photo credit: Blackmac - Fotolia.com
A question that my friends, family members and I ask each other at least once a year. These SunPass tolls seem to be almost everywhere in South Florida, and if you fall behind on payments, it might just cost you thousands.
While tolls may be necessary to maintain and repair roads, the excess fees charged by Florida’s SunPass can add up quickly. If you don’t pay attention to the notices that are usually sent by mail or e-mail, it will literally cost you. A $1.50 toll can cost you up to $40 and up with “administration” and late fees. Prior to 2014, your Florida driver’s license would get suspended if you did not pay your SunPass tolls. And yet, there is currently a rule that restricts you from renewing your car’s registration if you have unpaid toll fees. SunPass fees would be more feasible if you were able to arrange some sort of payment plan. The piled up toll fees can only be paid in full. It has to be a one-time, full balance payment, which makes it difficult for a working-class citizen who is already struggling to make ends meet. If you cannot renew your car’s registration due to SunPass because you cannot afford it, you still have to go to work with an expired registration. If your car’s registration is expired for six months, it is considered a second degree misdemeanor. This misdemeanor is punishable up to 60 days in jail and/or a $500 fee. Which will leave you more in debt, and ultimately, you’ll end up like a dog chasing its tail.
Take this as a reminder to pay your SunPass! Keep a balance on your account, and do not ignore those pesky letters.
