Town government cannot exist without financial support derived from its citizens. Roads would not be plowed and maintained. Pollution would not be checked. Zoning would allow anyone to build anything, anywhere. Construction sites would not be regulated for safety, and trash would be everywhere. Schools would be empty, and no one would enforce the law.

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Collecting the revenue that makes all these services possible is therefore a very important responsibility. While no one really enjoys paying taxes, where would we be without them?

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In order to keep Portland fiscally afloat, tax money is derived from real estate, personal property (for businesses), motor vehicles, and water and sewer usage. Even the charge you pay for trash bags (to deliver to the transfer station) ends up in the general fund.

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With a population of over 8,000 people to collect this money from, the Office of Collector of Revenue is very busy. 

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We therefore ask the public to send tax payments by mail when possible, rather than coming down in person only to wait in line.

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Please note:

• Remember to save your tax receipts in order to submit them along with your income tax returns.

• If you wish us to send you a receipt, pleased enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your check payment. Don't ever send cash by mail!

• You may make multiple payments with one check if you wish, except for delinquent motor vehicle tax.

• All outstanding motor vehicle tax bills must be paid by cash, money order or certified check before you will be issued a motor vehicle clearance.

• When changing your address with the Department of Motor Vehicles, make sure to change your driver's license and registration as well.

• Motor Vehicle adjustments? When making your request for an adjustment, please bring verification with you to the Assessor's Office. Acceptable verifications include 1) plate receipt with affidavit; 2) bill of sale; 3) letter from your insurance company showing the date and reason for the charge, 4) out-of-state registration.

• On your vehicle registration, make sure your proper town code is included. Portland's town code is 113.

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Click on the button above to search the Tax Collector's database. Information can be searched by name, address or account numbers.

If you feel that you have not received your tax bill, make sure to contact us! Failure to receive a tax bill will not protect you from being charged interest on delinquent payments (CT Statute Section 12-130).