Why is the Former Owner's Name Still on My Tax Bill?

This is often confusing to new owners. Chapter 59, Section 11, of the Massachusetts General Laws states: "Taxes on real estate shall be assessed ...to the person who is the owner on January first...."  The tax bill will carry the January 1st owner's name throughout the entire subsequent fiscal year.  Once the fiscal year has run its cycle, ther former owner's name will be replaced by the new owner's name.  Please be advised that real estate tax bills are mailed out in late December and late June.  Feel free to call the Tax Collector's office at 508-696-4250 with questions about your real estate tax bill.