Tax Title Process

What is a Tax Title?

Massachusetts law governs tax title procedures for cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth. A tax title is a lien placed on property to enforce the collection of property taxes, and is removed when the property tax account is paid in full. 

If the property taxes are not paid, the town may file at Massachusetts Land Court to foreclose and take possession of the property.

What if I Have a Tax Title?

The town offers payment agreements for customers who are in tax title. To enter into an agreement, the town requires a down payment of 25-50% of the total outstanding balance plus the payment of all current real estate taxes. 

Furthermore, the entire balance must be paid within one year of entering into said agreement. Residents must stay current on all taxes throughout the duration of the payment agreement.

Residents who have a tax title will be denied certain employment, business and volunteer opportunities until past due taxes are paid in full or an agreement with the town is signed.

Please contact the tax title office directly at (978) 928-1400 ext.205 for assistance with tax title payment options, payoff balances, the status of Massachusetts Land Court cases, or Tax Title listings and redemption certificates.