Buying a Car in Georgia, Living in Illinois: Yes, You Pay Illinois Taxes

Short version: You register in Illinois → you pay Illinois tax. Georgia dealer doesn't collect it; Illinois SOS does.

The Process

1. Buy in GA: Get signed title, bill of sale. Dealer *may* collect GA tax (4% TAVT) — but you'll claim credit in IL.
2. Bring to IL SOS (Secretary of State):
   • IL driver's license
   • GA title (properly assigned)
   • Proof of IL insurance
   • Completed Form VSD 190
   • Payment: Title ($150) + Tax + Registration ($151)

Tax Calculation (Illinois)

• State sales tax: 6.25%
• County/municipal add-ons: 0–4.75% (Chicago = 10.25% total)
• Basis: Purchase price (or "fair market value" if private sale/low price)
• Credit: GA TAVT paid → credit on IL return (Form RUT‑25)

Example

$25,000 car, Cook County (Chicago):
IL tax = $25,000 × 10.25% = $2,562.50
Minus GA TAVT ($1,000) = $1,562.50 due to IL

Deadlines & Penalties

• Register within 30 days of establishing residency / purchase
• Late: $20–$100 + interest
• Temp tag: 90-day from dealer (GA) — get IL plates before expiry

Pro Tips

• Keep ALL paperwork (bill of sale, GA temp tag, tax receipt)
• Private sale? Get notarized bill of sale + title
• Check ilsos.gov for current fees/forms

Two states, one car, one tax bill — Illinois wins.