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How to file an excise tax abatement

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An abatement is a reduction in your excise taxes. You have two options to file an abatement for your motor vehicle or boat excise tax:

Step
1

Before you get started by mail

You can only file an abatement for specific reasons. Please check to make sure you’re able to file an abatement:

You have until three years after the excise is due — OR one year after you pay the excise bill — to file an abatement.

You can find the abatement form on the reverse side of your excise tax bill. You can also download and print a blank abatement form online:

You can also call the Taxpayer Referral and Assistance Center at 617-635-4287 and we will send you the form you need.

Step
2

Mail us your application

Step
1

Before you get started in person

You can only file an abatement for specific reasons. Please check to make sure you’re able to file an abatement:

You have until three years after the excise is due — OR one year after you pay the excise bill — to file an abatement.

You can find the abatement form on the reverse side of your excise tax bill. You can also download and print a blank abatement form online:

Step
2

Go to Boston City Hall

You can bring your completed form or fill out a new one. Visit us at the Taxpayer Referral and Assistance Center on the Mezzanine level:

Room M-5, 1 City Hall Square
Boston, MA 02201
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COVID-19 office hours
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Keep in mind

Pay your excise tax

If you plan to file an abatement, it’s a good idea to pay your excise tax. If you don’t pay your excise bill and we deny your abatement, you will have to pay any late fees and penalties.

A motor vehicle excise payment is due 30 days after we issue the bill.  A boat excise payment is due 60 days after we issue the bill.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

Call the Taxpayer Referral and Assistance Center at 617-635-4287.

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