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 North Carolina, personal property tax is assessed on items such as motor vehicles, boats, and aircraft. This tax is an ad valorem tax, meaning it is based on the value of the property. The tax is administered at the county level, and the rate varies by county. Vehicle property tax is combined with the annual vehicle registration fees and paid to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). For business personal property, which includes any tangible property that produces income, businesses must annually list this property with the county assessor's office. The listing must be submitted by January 31st each year to avoid penalties. The assessed value is determined by the county tax assessor and is subject to appeal by the taxpayer. The tax rate applied is the same as for other real property in the county, and the revenue generated is used to fund local services such as schools, roads, and public safety.