PHONE:  401-233-1014

LOCATION:  The Tax Assessor's office is located in Town Hall, 64 Farnum Pike, on the 1st floor. 

FUNCTION:  This office prepares all regular and special assessment tax rolls for the Town of Smithfield as dictated by law. The tax assessor evaluates all taxable personal property within the town. All property is assessed as of December 31st of each year based on the use of the property during the current year.

Motor vehicles are also valued using the state's "Vehicle Value Commission" publication. Also, values are based on last years' number of days registered during that year.

Tax bills are mailed out on or after August 17th with quarterly payments due September 30th, December 31st, and March 31st. The last payment is due on June 30th of the following year.

• On June 21, a public hearing was held and the Tax Freeze Ordinance was amended.  The amendment only affects resident acquiring property in Smithfield after July 20, 2005.  The amendment changes the residency requirement from 5 to 10 years.
   
• Reminder: Tax bills are available for viewing & printing at  www.ritaxbills.com.
   
• NEW!  The following is a direct link to the Rhode Registry of Motor Vehicles website which can be used to change your address, renew registrations, and change tax towns:  http://www.dmv.ri.gov/
   

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the tax rates?

How is my property tax assessment calculated?
The values are based on 2006 Revaluation Schedules.  The market value of the land is added to the replacement cost new less depreciation of the improvements.
This value is compared to the selling price of similar houses in similar neighborhoods. The more heated living space the higher the assessment. 

How is my motor vehicle tax calculated?
The values placed on motor vehicles are based on the number of days registered during the previous year ending 12/31.  The State publishes a schedule of values each year and that value times the mill rate per thousand equals the new value.   The 2007 motor vehicle bill reflects the reinstatement of the State phase-out plan.

Are forms from the Tax Assessor's office available on-line?
Yes.  Several forms are available on the forms page of this web site.

How can I report changes to my property?
Changes or any improvements to your property should be done with the issuance of a building permit. Visit the Building Officials Office on the lower level of Town Hall. 

How do I qualify for an exemption?
The Tax Assessor's office has exemption applications available for veterans, senior citizens and disabled persons. Please call before December 31 for senior citizens and March 15 for veterans and disabled persons for qualification information.  Exemptions affect only the current years taxes.  Call 233-1014 to get the specific qualifications. 

When will I receive my tax bill?
Tax bills for 2006 were mailed on August 18, 2006.

How can I appeal my valuation?
The first step is to obtain an appeal form on-line or at the assessor’s office.  Follow the instructions for filing an appeal and return to the office.  According to R.I. General Law, the appeal deadline is 30 days for Motor Vehicles and 90 days for Real Estate and Personal Property.

Do I have to register my business with the Tax Assessor?
Yes.  According to Town Ordinance 236-13, all commercial and/or manufacturing businesses located in Smithfield, prior to the initial commencement of business within the Town, shall file a business registration.  The form for this registration is available on-line or may be obtained at the Assessor's office.   The form, along with a $10.00 fee, can be returned to the Assessor's office at 64 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, RI. 02917.