Friday Deadline to Opt in Title Ad Valorem Tax

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Time is running out for those looking to opt into the Title Ad Valorem Tax, also known as TAVT. When the 2012 Georgia General Assembly passed House Bill 386 in 2012, it called for a new taxation method for certain vehicles.

The title tax went into effect March 1, 2013 across the state. Anyone who purchased a car between January 1, 2012 and February 28, 2013 may choose to stay under the old law, but the deadline for anyone wanting to opt for the new one is Friday, February 28.

Bibb County resident Mamie Leek is reaping the benefits of TAVT.

“My tag was like $250 and now I only have to pay $20,” said Leek.

Bibb County Deputy Tax Commissioner Wade McCord said, “What TAVT does is takes away from what people call the ‘birthday tax’ so you won’t have to pay that…as long as you own the vehicle.”

It’s a one-time tax placed on the fair market value of your car. If you’re like Annie Smart and you plan to keep your vehicle until the wheels fall off, this might just be a no-brainer.

Smart said, “When I went to get my tag they told me that you’re not going to have to pay 200-something for your tag, it’s just $20 as long as you own the car, so I was excited about that…”

McCord added, “They can bring their paperwork in prior to February 28, which is Friday…and we would calculate if any taxes are owed.”

Any vehicle purchased in Georgia on or after March 1st, 2013 is automatically exempt from the birthday tax and replaced with TAVT.

For more information, visit www.etax.dor.ga.gov.