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:
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.
Mail us your application
Before you get started in person
UPDATE: Due to COVID-19, City Hall operating hours are reduced. We strongly urge you to conduct your business 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:
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:
Keep in mind
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.
Call the Taxpayer Referral and Assistance Center at 617-635-4287.
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