Question about California Sales Tax

[MarkSF]

Originally Posted by markpierce

There is a provision for up to a $70 reduction under homeowner's exemption, including a boat if primary residence.

Homeowners' Exemptions Frequently Asked Questions

The only mention of vessels is, and I quote : "Houseboat or floating home that is subject to property tax". A floating home is normally held to mean one of those houses on a concrete barge, that does not move under its own steam. Since the OPs sailboat is neither a houseboat, nor a floating home, even if someone is living on it, the exemption will not apply. That is my interpretation, anyway.

[Moontide]

Capt John 49

The date you got your sales ck is not impotant. The key is did you actually own the boat for 6 months. If less I think you have,a,goid shot at getting a refund (I think state uses 183 days as the magic number).

A day over and they will probably stick to their guns. Bad pun since the state democratic legislators and governor want no guns in citizens hands.

I'm sure their logic is that ypu should have paid on their bogus amount and then try to get a refund. Not sure that is the law however, probably just a bureaucratic 'position'. I know they have a booklet that applies to property taxes and it might apply to use (sales) tax. Might help in your fight.

Don't remember whether or not you're a Cali resident.

Good luck.
Bill

Good luck.

[Moontide]

At least in Orange County a boat can get an exemption if it qualifies as residence under IRS rules i.e. has a head and cooking facilities.

[markpierce]

Originally Posted by MarkSF

The only mention of vessels is, and I quote : "Houseboat or floating home that is subject to property tax". A floating home is normally held to mean one of those houses on a concrete barge, that does not move under its own steam. Since the OPs sailboat is neither a houseboat, nor a floating home, even if someone is living on it, the exemption will not apply. That is my interpretation, anyway.

Boats in California are subject to property taxes, just like houses on land. If your boat is your primary home, it is a "houseboat" regarding the up-to-$70 exemption regardless of its configuration, presuming it has household accommodations.