Business Personal Property

Personal property is usually referred to as any items that are movable or not permanently fixed to the land. Business personal property includes fixtures, tools, furniture, machinery, leased equipment, and other items used to operate a business. As of October 1, 2006, any owner of a truck trailer, tractor-trailer, or semi-trailer who decides to purchase a permanent trailer plate, will annually assess the property in accordance with Rule 810-4-1-03 in the county in which the truck trailer, tractor-trailer, or semi-trailer resides. All personal property should be reported to the Revenue Commissioner's office each year from October 1st through December 31st. Leased property should also be reported to ensure that its owner can be identified. Recently the State of Alabama Department of Revenue ordered Houston County to conduct a review of all business personal property. This is to ensure that all businesses are reporting correctly and this will also ensure equalization of all businesses. Failure to report personal property may result in a $5.00 late fee and other penalties.

The State of Alabama has determined that Airbnb's and short-term rentals are taxable as Class ll property. As such, all Airbnb and short-term rental equipment (furniture, appliances, linens, Wi-Fi equipment, etc.) is taxable as Business Personal Property. 

Airbnb's are not entitled to a Homestead Exemption. Any home that is receiving a Homestead Exemption will forfeit that exemption once it becomes an Airbnb.