Boston Collecting Division - Boston, MA

Boston Tax Collecting Division

Municipal Revenue Services

The Collecting Division of the City of Boston, situated on the mezzanine level of Boston City Hall, is the central agency responsible for billing and collecting municipal funds. Operating under the Treasury Department, its primary mandate is to ensure the efficient collection of property taxes, motor vehicle excise taxes, and boat excise taxes. The division processes millions of dollars annually, which directly fund essential city services such as schools, public safety, and infrastructure maintenance. Taxpayers can visit the payment windows for in-person transactions or to resolve complex billing discrepancies.

Liens and Tax Takings

Beyond routine collections, the division handles the legal aspects of delinquent accounts. This includes the preparation and filing of tax takings and tax certification liens for properties with unpaid taxes. Real estate professionals and legal representatives frequently interact with this office to obtain Municipal Lien Certificates (MLCs), which are required documents for property sales and refinancing. The division also manages the redemption process for properties in tax title, working with owners to clear debts and avoid foreclosure.

Payment Options and Access

The Collecting Division offers multiple ways for residents to meet their obligations, including an online portal for real estate and excise tax payments. For those visiting City Hall, the office accepts various payment methods, though it is important to note that credit card payments typically incur a service fee. The counters are accessible to the public during standard city business hours, and staff are available to explain the details of quarterly tax billings and interest charges on overdue accounts.

• Real Estate: Quarterly property tax billing and collection.
• Excise: Motor vehicle and boat tax processing.
• Documents: Issuance of Municipal Lien Certificates.

As the financial intake hub for the city, the Collecting Division plays a vital role in maintaining Boston's fiscal health and stability.