Excise tax in Massachusetts is a levy imposed on specific goods or activities, often at the point of manufacture or sale. The method for determining this tax varies depending on the item or activity being taxed. For instance, motor vehicle excise is based on the vehicles assessed value, while fuel excise is typically calculated per gallon sold. To illustrate, the annual motor vehicle excise is computed using the assessed value of the vehicle, multiplied by a rate of $25 per thousand dollars of valuation.
This tax serves as a significant revenue source for the Commonwealth and its municipalities. The collected funds support essential government services and infrastructure projects. Historically, excise taxes have been used to regulate consumption patterns, discourage specific behaviors (like tobacco use), and fund particular state initiatives. The stable revenue stream provided by these taxes enables more predictable budgeting and financial planning.