Why is the former owner's name on my real estate tax bill?

The State mandates tax bills to be assessed to the owner of record as of January 1st prior to the new fiscal year of July 1st. It is very important to submit any ownership changes and mail address updates to the Assessor's Office in writing at the time of closing. It may take many months before the Town is notified from the Registry of Deeds of transfers. Taxes are adjusted at the closing between the buyer and seller.