What home and business owners should know about personal tangible property taxes

by Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS® 06/25/2023

Personal tangible property is a tax term referring to physical property used in running your commercial or rental business. While general property taxes concern the actual land and buildings, personal tangible property taxes are related to equipment, furnishings, vehicles and more. If you own a business or rental property, it's important to understand how these taxes work. Here is some basic info to know:

Examples of tangible personal property

Tangible personal property is any asset used for your rental or commercial business. To qualify as tangible personal property, the assets must have a physical existence. Therefore, important assets like copyrights or patents do not count. Here are some examples of common forms of tangible personal property:

office furniture
equipment and machinery
computers, cell phones and other digital devices
delivery vehicles

Some other examples of tangible personal property can include:

jewelry
collectables
sports & hobby memorabilia

How tangible personal property is taxed

Tangible personal property is taxed in a similar way to land or building property. Landlords and companies must determine the value of their business assets and report them in a separate tax return. Depending on the state, the value might be dependent on the purchase price, assessed value or appraisal. Assets are taxed based on a percentage of their value. Depending on the asset, you may have to pay taxes on personal tangible property annually or only once.

If you're a property or business owner, it's important to be aware of what qualifies as personal tangible property. If you're not sure if your assets qualify, you can consult with your local tax authority to find out the specific requirements of your state and municipality.

Personal Property Tax

Personal Tangible Property

Property Taxes

About the Author

Bill and Aby Brooks, REALTORS®

Aby’s understanding of excellent customer service stems from her extensive professional background. Prior to earning her real estate license in 2005, along with her college degree that focuses on business and engineering, Aby was the head of purchasing, inventory and quality assurance for an OEM medical and aerospace manufacturing company. Known by her clients and fellow realtors for her tenacity, honesty, integrity, and attention to detail, as a full-time realtor, she is also appreciated for her quick response to her client’s needs. Aby has been an avid horse rider and owner since the age of eight, with her husband Billas a local firefighter/EMT they are very active within the community. Bill served as a US Army Airborne Ranger in 75th Ranger Regiment, he is a combat-wounded veteran who was awarded a Purple Heart. Bill's background as facility Manager for an International metals company and as a firefighter/EMT gives him the experience, attention to detail and the desire to go above and beyond to serve his customers. The Brooks' serve on the board of a local non-profit (501c3) that gives back to the veterans, first responders and their families. The Brooks family resides on their small ranch in Manatee County. Aby& Bill excel in all types of real estate and their passion is helping people. “We genuinely like people, growing up in Sarasota and Manatee counties and now raising our own family here, it is an absolute pleasure to share our growing area with newcomers and reminisce with longtime residents. Our area has so much to offer and it is our business to help folks buy and sell their own piece of paradise.”