I bought the property this year, why is the former owner still appearing on the tax bill?

Property taxes are billed with the information as of January 1st preceding the beginning of the current Fiscal Year.  If you purchased the property any time after January 1st, you cannot be listed as the assessed owner until the next fiscal year. This rule is mandated by Massachusetts General Law. The town's Fiscal year runs from 7/1-6/30 each year. If the Assessors Office is notified that there is a new owner, as a courtesy the Assessors can add your name in “Care Of”.