Who pays Rhode Island's non-owner occupied tax (the 'Taylor Swift tax')?
Quick answer
Owners of Rhode Island homes assessed at $1 million or more that are not their main residence. From tax years starting July 1, 2026, the tax is $2.50 for every $500 of value above $1 million (R.I. Gen. Laws 44-72-6). A $1.5 million second home owes $2,500 a year. Some rented homes are exempt (44-72-5).
Not legal advice.
Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Law | R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 44-72 | Official source |
| Starts | Taxable years beginning on or after July 1, 2026 | Official source |
| Rate | $2.50 per $500 (or part) of assessed value above $1,000,000 (§44-72-6) | Official source |
| Non-owner occupied | Not the owner's primary residence and not occupied by the owner a majority of days (§44-72-3) | Official source |
| Exclusions | Certain rented properties (§44-72-5) | Official source |
What to do now
- Check the assessed value of each Rhode Island property.
- Document occupancy days and rental periods.
- Read the Division of Taxation payment advisory.
- Keep records for the Certificate of No Tax Due process.
Want it done in an afternoon? The Rhode Island non-owner occupied tax kit turns these steps into fill-in templates, a checklist and a tracker, with the official sources quoted. One-time payment, instant download.
FAQ
Why is it called the 'Taylor Swift tax'?
It is a nickname from news coverage of high-value Rhode Island second homes. The official name is the Non-Owner Occupied Property Tax, R.I. Gen. Laws chapter 44-72.
How much is the tax?
$2.50 for each $500 (or part of $500) of assessed value above $1,000,000 (§44-72-6). A home assessed at $1,500,000 owes 1,000 x $2.50 = $2,500 a year.
Who pays?
Owners of residential property assessed at $1 million or more that is not their primary residence and that they did not occupy for a majority of days in the taxable year (§44-72-3).
Are rentals excluded?
Some rented properties are excluded under §44-72-5; read the section for the conditions.
Does the $1 million threshold change?
From tax years beginning on or after July 1, 2027, it is adjusted for inflation (CPI-U) and can never go down.
Is this tax advice?
No. General information only. Ask a Rhode Island tax professional.
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