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1. What is motor vehicle excise tax?

Every motor vehicle and trailer registered in Massachusetts is subject to excise tax unless expressly exempted. Registering a motor vehicle automatically triggers an excise tax. The Registry of Motor Vehicles prepares data for excise bills according to the information on the motor vehicle registration. Towns then prepare and send the bills based on the excise data provided by the Registry of Motor Vehicles. For more information, please see the Secretary's page.

2. What is the excise tax rate?

The rate is $25 per thousand dollars of value. This is the Motor Vehicle Excise tax rate for the entire Commonwealth. The valuation is based on the rates set by the state and are assessed according to the manufacturer's list price. For more information, please see the Secretary's page.

3. When is payment due?

Payment of the motor vehicle excise is due 30 days from the date the excise bill is issued. According to Chapter 60A, Section 2 of the Massachusetts General Laws, "Failure to receive notice shall not affect the validity of the excise". A person who does not receive a bill is still liable for the excise tax. Therefore, it is important to keep the Registry of Motor Vehicles and the Post Office informed of the current name and address so that the excise tax bill can be delivered promptly.

4. I received an excise tax on a car I no longer own - how do I get an adjustment on this bill?

Whether you've sold, traded, or junked a vehicle, you must pay the excise tax bill in full by the due date. You must complete the form on the back of the bill, or an abatement application available on the web and forward with the required paperwork to the Assessors' Office. If you are entitled to an abatement, you will receive a refund check after the abatement application has been submitted by you and the application has been approved by the Board of Assessors. Please contact the Assessors' Office with additional questions.

5. How do I change my address?

In order to change your address you must notify the Registry of Motor Vehicles, or your Insurance Company. This is the taxpayer's responsibility. The Town cannot change your address.