big bucks II

[makusk]

HelloIs it true that if you have your boat "documented" by the Coast Guard you don't have to "register" it with the state govt. (Boat must be 5 tons at least). Is this a good way to avoid paying the outrageous sales and "luxury taxes" some states charge to register a boat?I'm retired with limited income and want to live on, as well as sail, my boat.Thanks

 

[PaulK]

No.

Even if you document your vessel with the Coast Guard, many states also require you to register with them. Because the Federal law takes precedence, you don't have to show the state registration numbers if your boat's documented, but that doesn't mean the boat isn't registered. Connecticut, for example, requires that vessels moored in its waters for (I believe) more than 30 days be registered with the state. Harbormasters make note of this and are empowered to enforce it. Other states probably operate on similar grounds. The upshot: no free lunch.

 

[Dennis Thomas]

Check your state

Texas just closed this loophole last year. Now you must register and apply the decal but you don't have to display the numbers. If you already own the boat you may not have to pay sales tax. Tax applies only after the change in the law.

 

[Makusk]

thanks Paul y Dennis

Thanks for the fast reply, Paul K. y Dennis