Many states assess a personal property tax on certain items of personal property such as motor vehicles, boats, and aircraft. Business personal property taxes—taxes on tangible personal property items that are used to produce income—are often referred to as ad valorem taxes.
In Alaska, there is no statewide personal property tax. However, personal property taxes are assessed at the local level, with municipalities having the authority to levy taxes on personal property, including motor vehicles, boats, and aircraft. The specific rates and exemptions can vary significantly from one municipality to another. Business personal property, which includes tangible items used to produce income, may also be subject to taxation by local governments. These taxes are typically ad valorem, meaning they are based on the assessed value of the property. Business owners in Alaska should check with their local municipal tax assessor's office to understand the specific tax obligations for their business personal property.