Personal Property Exemption

Beginning in 2024, the State of Rhode Island will exempt the first $50,000 in business personal property value. Businesses within the sewer district will still be assessed an ad valorem tax, and there is a $10.00 minimum for tax bills. Going forward, businesses will still be required to complete the annual return to establish the value of personal property.

For business owners with more than one business, the $50,000 exemption applies to the aggregate total of business personal property value. For example, an owner with three businesses will receive ONE exemption of $50,000. These owners can expect to see a supplemental bill for the additional businesses. If the aggregate total value of multiple businesses is below $50,000, then there will be no bill for business personal property. 

2026 Annual Return Form

According to the General Laws of Rhode Island, taxable property must be declared to the Assessor between December 31, 2025, and January 31, 2026.  If a taxpayer is unable to make such declaration within the prescribed time, they may submit written notice prior to January 31, of their intention to submit declaration by March 15.  Failure to file a true and full account within the prescribed time eliminates the right to appeal.

This form is for business of all types in the Town of Westerly and for taxpayers who are appealing the assessment of their property(ies)

Authorization to Appoint Agent

Annual return filings are protected by the General Laws of Rhode Island and cannot be viewed or copied for persons other than assessment personnel and the business owner without the written authorization.  To appoint an agent other than the business owner who will be able to view or receive copies, the business owner must file an Authorization with the Assessment Office.  Identification of the agent will be verified prior to release of copies or allowance to view documents.

Affidavit of Personal Property Status

When a business closes or moves out of Westerly, an Affidavit of Personal Property must be filed by the business owner with the Assessment Office to remove the business from future tax rolls