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Finance Department FAQs

When are Town employees paid?

Town employees are paid by direct deposit every Thursday. This means that earnings are electronically transferred to their designated bank account by Thursday morning. Warrants authorizing the payroll are prepared every Monday for the approval of the Town Accountant and the Board of Selectmen.

Do I need my vehicle registration to purchase a Facilities Sticker?

The Facility Sticker is recorded using your vehicle registration number. Proof of residency is also required. The vehicle registration will provide the necessary information. If you have a leased car, the registration and your drivers license are required.

How often does the Town issue checks to its vendors?

Payments to vendors are issued every Friday. Warrants authorizing the payments are prepared every Tuesday for the approval of the Town Accountant and the Board of Selectmen.

Why won’t the Registry of Motor Vehicles renew my drivers license or vehicle registration?

If you have unpaid vehicle excise taxes or outstanding parking tickets, the Registry will “mark” your file and refuse to allow you to renew your drivers license or vehicle registration. Once your file has been marked, you will need to contact the Town’s Deputy Collector, Kelley and Ryan Associates, at (800) 491-9788 to resolve excise tax issues and contact the Town of Marblehead Tax Collector, at (781) 631-1033 or parkingclerk@marbleheadma.gov to resolve parking ticket issues.

When can current and retired employees join one of the Town’s health insurance plans?

Current and retired Town employees may enroll in one of the health insurance plans, offered by the State Group Insurance Commission (GIC) during the annual open enrollment period. Open enrollment for the GIC usually occurs during the month of April and early May, with coverage beginning the following July.

How do I get information about my taxes?

If you are an attorney or mortgage company working on a sale or refinance, you need to order a Municipal Lien Certificate. The fees for Municipal Tax Liens are listed under “Permits”. If you are a homeowner, the collector’s office can print a history of your payments. Please visit the Treasurer/Collector’s office or call (781) 631-0587 to receive this information.

How did you arrive at the property assessment listed on my tax bill?

All questions concerning property assessments should be directed to the Assessors Office. They can be reached at (781) 631-0236. You may also check their page on this website.

How do I get an abatement on my taxes?

All questions concerning tax abatements must be referred to the Assessors Office at (781) 631-0236. You may also check their page on this website.

Why did my taxes go up?

There are many reasons why taxes increase, including additional expenditures authorized by Town Meeting or an increase in your assessed property value. You should contact the Assessors Office at (781) 631-0236 for questions concerning your property assessment.

Who is Kelley and Ryan Associates and where is their office located?

Kelley and Ryan Associates is the authorized Deputy Collector for the Town and is responsible for collecting outstanding vehicle excise taxes that are owed to the Town. Kelley and Ryan Associates maintains an office in Beverly, behind the “old” Registry of Motor Vehicles on Cabot Street. They can be reached at (800) 491-9788.

Why am I being charged interest when I paid my real estate taxes only two weeks late?

According to Massachusetts State Statutes, interest on property taxes is due and collectible beginning the day after the tax payment due date.