Who qualifies for an abatement?
  • Your vehicle is valued for more than percentage of manufacturer's list price in the schedule established by G.L. Ch. 60A section 1.
  • Your vehicle is exempt from the excise under G.L. Ch. 60A section 1.
  • You sell, trade or otherwise transfer ownership of the vehicle, and transfer or cancel your registration, during the same calendar year.
  • You move to another state, register the vehicle there, and cancel or do not renew your Massachusetts registration during the same calendar year.
  • Your vehicle is stolen, you report the theft to the police within 48 hours, and you cancel your registration and obtain a certificate from Registrar at least 30 days after theft.
  • You register the same vehicle again later in the same calendar year.

You are not entitled to an abatement if you:

  1. Cancel your registration and retain ownership of the vehicle.
  2. Move to another Massachusetts city or town, during the same calendar year.

Show All Answers

1. What is motor vehicle excise tax?
2. Who must pay an excise tax?
3. What is the tax rate?
4. What happens if an excise bill is overdue?
5. How do I change the mailing address on my excise bill?
6. How can I pay a bill that is held at the Deputy Collector's office?
7. How are vehicles valued?
8. Who qualifies for an abatement?
9. Who qualifies for an exemption?
10. When must I file for an abatement or exemption on excise?
11. Where must I file for an abatement?
12. Where do I get an application for abatement?
13. What is the minimum tax?
14. What information do I need to file with an abatement application?
15. How long does it take to receive an abatement once it is filed?