Virginia Personal Property Tax: What You Owe and How It Works

When you own a car, boat, or trailer in Virginia, you’re likely paying Virginia personal property tax, a local tax on tangible personal property owned by residents. Also known as personal property tax, this isn’t a federal fee—it’s collected by your city or county every year, and it’s due whether you use the item or not. Unlike some states that tax only homes, Virginia taxes almost anything you can move: your sedan, your RV, even your jet ski. And here’s the catch—you pay for the year that’s already over. That’s because Virginia property taxes, including personal property tax, are paid in arrears. You’re not paying for this year’s use—you’re paying for last year’s ownership.

That means if you bought a car in March 2024, you’ll get a tax bill in late 2024 for the full 2023 calendar year. At closing, buyers and sellers split the tax based on how many days each owned the vehicle. Miss a payment? The county can slap on penalties, freeze your registration, or even put a lien on your property. And if you move out of state, you still owe the tax for the time you lived there. Virginia tax due dates, vary by locality but typically fall in June and December. Some counties let you pay in two installments; others demand the full amount upfront.

It’s not just cars. If you own a business, you might pay personal property tax on office equipment, machinery, or even furniture. Homeowners with boats or trailers registered in Virginia pay too. The rate? It’s set by your county—ranging from $0.50 to over $4 per $100 of assessed value. Fairfax charges more than rural counties. And assessments? They’re based on what your vehicle was worth last January, not what you paid for it. That’s why your bill might surprise you if you bought a used car at a discount.

There’s no state-wide exemption for seniors or veterans—though some localities offer relief programs. You have to apply separately. And if you’re a non-resident landlord with a car parked in Virginia? You still owe. The system doesn’t care if you live in Maryland or Texas. If it’s registered in Virginia, you pay.

People often think personal property tax is just another fee. But it’s more than that—it’s tied to how Virginia funds local services: schools, roads, emergency response. Skip it, and you’re not just avoiding a bill—you’re cutting into your community’s budget. That’s why enforcement is strict. The DMV won’t renew your tags until the tax is paid. And if you’ve moved, the county will chase you down.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve dealt with this exact system. Learn how to reduce your bill, what to do if you get a wrong assessment, how to appeal, and what happens when you break a lease and need to transfer your vehicle registration. Whether you’re new to Virginia or you’ve lived here for years, this isn’t just tax info—it’s survival advice for anyone who owns something that moves.