What is the penalty for failure to file or for filing late?

Pursuant to Massachusetts General Law chapter 59, section 64, if no Form of List (PDF) was filed for the fiscal year, the assessor cannot grant abatement for overvaluation of personal property for the year. A Form of List is not considered filed unless it is complete.

If the Form of List is not filed on time, the assessor can only grant abatement if the taxpayer shows a reasonable excuse for late filing or if the tax assessed is more than 150% of the amount that would have been assessed if the Form of List was filed on time. In this case, only the amount over 150 percent of the correct value can be abated.

Show All Answers

1. What is personal property?
2. Who must file a return?
3. Where and when must my return be filed?
4. Can I get an extension of the filing deadline?
5. What is the penalty for failure to file or for filing late?
6. What is the return used for and who has access to it?
7. What personal property is taxable?
8. Where can I find forms and more information on personal property tax?