Asked in Tax Law for Mississippi

Q: We boughy a car. Got title put in our name already. Yhen found out there are back taxes owed on car. Who is responsible?

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: In most states the owner of the car is responsible for all taxes owed on it; however, that information is not as readily available as it is in other situations--like real estate taxes and IRS liens on real property. The general rule is that taxes go along with the items bought, which means you, as the buyer, are now liable to the taxing authority for the back taxes owed by the seller. However, you will have a cause of action against the seller when you pay his taxes.

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