How do I qualify for a Motor Vehicle abatement?

You may qualify for an abatement (or a refund if the excise is paid) when:

  • Your vehicle is valued for more than that percentage of manufacturer’s list price (see schedule list in the above answer)
  • Your vehicle is exempt from excise under G.L. Ch. 60A Sec. 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 your Massachusetts registration during the same calendar year.
  • Your vehicle is stolen, you report the theft to the police, and you cancel your registration.
  • 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 or (2) move to another Massachusetts city or town during the same calendar year.

No excise bill may be reduced to less than $5.00.  No abatement of less than $5.00 will be made. 

Motor Vehicle Abatement form

MV Abatement 1-2-3 Instructions 

Vehicle Transfer Affidavit