Has anyone successfully filed for a sales tax abatement?

[Garrett]

I bought a bike for cheap, it's not worth near the book value. How do I file for an abatement? Anyone here successfully done it?

[gamorg02]

i was told by the person I asked at the DMV how to to not even waste my time, was in the same position. I asked even about a notarized bill of sale.

[NPDCPA]

Don't waste your time.

[Falko]

I did and was successful, but it was for a different reason (already paid the ST in another state). Given the RMV didn't even offer me the form, it was given to me by the wildlife people where I reg'd the boat, I wouldn't go by what the "well-informed" staff at the RMV say. It takes 3 minutes to fill out the form and send it in (that includes licking the stamp if necessary). If anything, make the state take the time to process it and deny it. Then send another one...

[Garrett]

For $300, I think it might be worth looking into :dunno

[TheIglu]

Can't hurt to try. If it is really worth way less than book value, be prepared to demonstrate why.

[MikeyZ]

I did it and was successful.

My first bike about 7 years ago was a 92 katana 600. I paid $700 for it- it needed mirrors, carbs cleaned and had some scratches.

When I went to register it they told me book value on the bike was $4500!!!!!! I was in shock nonetheless but wanted to get my first bike on the road ASAP so I paid it and asked for an abatement form. She gave it to me no questions asked.

Now the important part- I wrote a letter, about a peg long detailing the bike and especially it's condition. Obviously pick out every negative thing even just little scratches. Then photograph all these negatives and place them in the envelope with the letter. Make sure you tell them in the letter about mechanical needs that can't be seen.
After the letter and photographs- go on every used vehicle value site and print out the values. Highlight the "poor" fields and state "I believe my recent purchase falls under the "poor" category with a value of "xxx".
I did this and approximately three weeks later I received a letter back stating I was granted the refund. Ended up getting a check for $280 I believe.

Well worth it. Good Luck! They didn't give me any hassle.