When do you pay sales tax on a vehicle purchased out of state?

Question

I live in New Jersey but just bought a used car from a dealer in Ohio. The dealer did not charge me sales tax because I would have to pay NJ sales tax when I register the car. I registered the car today, but was not charged sales tax. I think the DMV registered the car as if I was transfering the title from OH to NJ (as you would do when moving between states), and not as a new purchase. Did I just get away with avoiding the taxes, or will they pick up on it in the system and charge me down the road? And can they even do anything since the car is already registered? Am I in the clear?

Answer 1

Some states don't have sales tax and frequently the government screws up. We the people don't know all of the government's laws so if they fail to take our money it is their loss.

Answer 2

What did they do with title when you presented it to them to transfer ownership? How could they not be aware that the car was a new purchase if the registration wasn't already in your name.



I think someone screwed up and they'll figure it out soon enough and send you a bill for the taxes.

Answer 3

Hi, upon registering the car on your state, you'll be charged income tax at the fee paid. i've visible dealers attempt to accumulate income tax although it used to be a personal sale.