Learn how the municipal collector contributes to the financial stability of Massachusetts communities.
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The role of the collector in municipal finance
The municipal collector is responsible for printing and mailing property tax bills, handling cash receipts and collections, and issuing refunds for over payments. In some communities, the collector receives and processes all payments due the municipality, such as water or sewer bills, liens and betterments, and payments for code violations. The role of collector can sometimes be combined with that of the treasurer. Learn more about the role of the collector by reviewing the resources below.
Table of Contents
Overview of responsibilities
Procedures and best practices
Tax takings
- Assessment and Waiver of Penalties Imposed for Dishonored Payments (BUL2017-4B) (PDF)
- Delinquent Real Estate Taxes: Tax Taking Process Webinar Recording (Video)
- Delinquent Real Estate Taxes: Tax Taking Process Webinar Slides (PDF)
- Revised Procedure: When a Real Estate Tax Lien is Continued (BUL2017-3) (PDF)
Motor vehicle excise
- DOR's Guide to Motor Vehicle Excise
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Motor Vehicle Excise
- How Motor Vehicle Excise is Assessed (Video)
- Motor Vehicle Excise: A Guide for Assessors (from Course 101) Handbook (PDF)
- Motor Vehicle Excise: A Guide for Assessors (from Course 101) Module (Video 101)
- Motor Vehicle Excise Abatements (Video)
- Motor Vehicle Excise Exemptions (Video)
- Motor Vehicle Excise Webinar (Video)
- Secretary of State’s Motor Vehicle Excise Information page