Tax Information for Preston

Motor Vehicles are subject to a local property tax under Connecticut state law. This applies whether or not the vehicle is registered. The local property tax is computed and issued by your local tax collector.

If you do not register a motor vehicle but retain ownership, you must annually file a declaration form with your assessor(s) between October 1 and November 1.

Tax Jurisdiction

A tax jurisdiction is considered to be your town of residence.

Motor Vehicle Assessments

Motor vehicle assessments are based upon 70% of average retail value as determined by your local assessor. Any questions regarding the assessed value of a vehicle should be referred to your local assessor.

The uniform assessment date is October 1 in Connecticut. Motor vehicles registered on October 1 will be part of the October 1 Grand List. Vehicles registered between October 2 and July 31 will be listed on a supplement to the October 1 Grand List.

For most Connecticut municipalities the tax due date for the October 1 Grand List bill is July 1. The due date for the supplemental list bill is January 1. Some municipalities give the option of paying the bill in installments. Please contact the local tax collector to find out what the practice is in the town in which you live.

Delinquencies

If your name has been reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles as being delinquent in payment for a motor vehicle, you will be unable to register, or renew, any vehicle until payment (including any accrued interest) is made. A tax clearance form (release certificate indicating payment) from the tax collector must be submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with your registration application as verification of payment. Failure to receive a tax bill does not invalidate the tax.

Supplemental Motor Vehicles

For additional information regarding supplemental motor vehicles please visit the DMV Town Property Tax information page.

Board of Assessment Appeals

Assessment appeals should first be directed to your assessor and then to the local Board of Assessments Appeals (BAA). The BAA meets during the month of September. September is solely for appeals relating to motor vehicle assessments appearing on the preceding October 1 Grand List. Appearance before the BAA is required in order for the Board to consider your appeal. If you are unable to appear in person, you may give written authorization for someone to appear on your behalf as your agent. All documentation substantiating your appeal should be presented during the meeting. Any questions regarding the appeal process should be directed to your local tax assessor.

Questions concerning assessed value and/or motor vehicle tax adjustments programs should be directed to the Assessor's Office. Please feel free to contact us during office hours at 860-887-5581, ext. 107.