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1. How do I file for a motor vehicle abatement?

Fill out and sign a motor vehicle abatement form.  Attach all the supporting documents requested on Section D of the application, and Email to Assessor, or mail to: Assessor, 29 Middle Rd, Boxborough, MA 01719.

2. How are abatements calculated?

Abatements are prorated by the month.  No abatement shall be granted for less than $5, which is the minimum excise tax for a full calendar year.

3. When is the deadline for filing an abatement?

Abatement applications must be received by the Assessor's office within three years after the excise is due, or one year after the excise is paid, whichever is later.  Suppose an excise tax bill was due on March 1, 2020.  The abatement deadline would be March 1, 2023, OR one year after the payment of the bill, whichever is later.

4. How do I change address for my excise tax?

Change of addresses for Excise Tax is done through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.  See Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicle Change of Address Form.

5. What if I move to another town in Massachusetts?

The excise tax for any calendar year is due to the municipality in which the vehicle was registered on January 1.  If you move within Massachusetts you pay the motor vehicle excise to the city or town in which the vehicle was registered on January 1 of that year.

6. Does a parent or guardian who owns and registers a vehicle used to transport a disabled minor qualify for exemption?

No.  There is no exemption in G.L. c.60A for a vehicle that is owned and registered to an adult and used to transport a disabled minor.  To qualify for the motor vehicle exemption for a disabled person, the vehicle must be owned and registered by or leased to a person who meets the specific disability standards.  For further information, refer to Motor Vehicle Excise FAQs from DLS.

7. I have relocated to another state. How can I prevent future excise tax bills?

The Assessor's Office does not own, nor maintain a bill file pertaining to the license plates and their garaging information.  The only way to stop future bills is by cancelling the license plate through the Massachusetts Department of Registry of Motor Vehicle.  You can cancel the plate online following this link.

8. I have cancelled my registration but kept the car. Do I get abatement?

No.  You are not entitled to abatement if you cancel your registration and retain ownership of the vehicle.  You must provide documentation of transfer of title of vehicle in order to receive abatement.