Exemptions/Discounts
Assessment/Evaluations
Personal Property
Exemptions/Discounts
Do I qualify for any special discounts/exemptions on my taxes?
Please see our list of exemptions for eligibility. Read about Tax Assessor Exemptions
Can I receive more than one discount/exemption?
YES, you may qualify for multiple exemptions on residential property bills.
How do I know if I qualify for the Veteran exemption?
Qualified Veteran Service Dates are for persons who discharged or served honorably.
- World War I 4/6/1917 to 11/11/1918
- World War II 12/7/41 to 12/31/1946
- Korean Conflict 6/27/50 to 1/31/55
- Vietnam 2/28/1961 to 5/7/1975
- *Grenada 1983-1984
- *Lebanon 1983-1984
- Persian Gulf 8/2/1990 to 5/1/1994
- Haitian Conflict 8/2/1990 to 5/1/1994
- Bosnian Conflict 8/2/1990 to 5/1/1994
- Persons who received the “campaign ribbon” or “Global War Expeditionary Medal”
*Must have actually served in the conflict.
Read about Military Service Records
My Spouse passed away can I receive his/her veteran exemption?
Yes, if you are the unmarried widow or widower. To qualify, bring a certified copy of the death certificate along with your spouse’s DD214 to the Tax Assessor’s Office.
My family resides on my property, but I am the owner. Am I entitled to the Owner Occupied Rate or can my family member apply?
No. The only person who is eligible for this occupied rate must have a deeded interest in the property.
In most cases, people choose to give the family member a “Life Estate” in the property so that they may get the benefit of this lower rate. Please consult your attorney to see if this option is right for you.
Can I get any exemptions from my motor vehicle excise bill?
The only exemptions allowed on excise tax are; Veteran and Widow of Veteran. (Subject to qualifications). Read for more information about motor vehicle excise tax
Do I qualify for any exemptions on my commercial property?
The only exemptions allowed on commercial property are; Veteran and Widow of Veteran. (Subject to qualifications)
Assessment/Valuation
When is my real estate assessed?
The law requires for “full” revaluation every 9 years with updates every three years. The major difference between a full revaluation and a statistical update is that a full revaluation includes a complete re-collection of property data.
Do all property values change in a revaluation year?
Yes, almost every property will change in value. However, not all property values will change at the same rate. Market value will have increased more for some neighborhoods and property types than for others.
I would like more information on the revaluation process?
Please follow this link for more details
How do I report changes to my property?
Changes to any improvement should be done only with the issuance of a building permit. Visit the Inspection & Standards Office located at 444 Westminster Street or call 401-680-5201
Can I appeal my valuation?
If you feel that your property has been overvalued, disproportionately assessed, incorrectly classified, or is exempt from taxation, you may file an appeal. Applications, which must be filed for each property being contested, and must be filed and received in the Assessing Department within 90 days of the date the tax bill is payable. By law, the Assessor cannot act on any applications received after that date. There is no fee to apply.
What is an Excise Tax?
Read more about Motor Vehicle Excise Tax
Personal Property FAQ
I’m an exempt organization; do I still need to file a return?
YES. It is required per RI General Law that you file an annual return with the Assessor.
My business is now CLOSED, or has been INACTIVE for a very long time how do I fill out the form?
Write on the form that your business closed, when it closed, and any supporting documentation, and mail it to us!
I’ve recently OPENED a business, where can I get an Annual Return?
How is my business valued?
Rhode Island General Law (44-5-12.1) provides for the assessment of personal property at its “original purchase price including all costs such as freight and installation. Assets will be classified and depreciated as defined”.
What is Business Tangible Personal Property Tax?
Business Tangible Personal Property Tax is a tax that is assessed on the personal property items that are used in the operation of the taxpayer’s business. These items can include furniture, machinery, computer equipment, leasehold improvements (improvements made to the business) and fixtures.
When do I need to file my Annual Return?
The Deadline to file is January 31st, an extension can be granted till March 15th if we receive a written request before January 31st.
I’ve never had to pay this tax before.
Every business that is located within the State of Rhode Island that is not deemed exempt per RI General Law is subject to Business Tangible Personal Property Tax.
How do I register a new business?
All new businesses must first obtain their business license within City Hall. Upon acquisition of such license, they may proceed to call into, submit by mail to, or visit in person the Tax Assessor’s Office to complete the process. No other further documentation is necessary for registration of a new business.
How do I obtain a copy of the tax roll please follow our link: https://data.providenceri.gov/
Check your property valuation Obtain a copy of the tax roll Car Tax Phase Out
