Hi Linda,

Bob and I have been researching full-time RV'ing now for the last year, having bought the appropriate books and videos, having done a TON of research online, and then ultimately attending the RV Dreams Fall Rally.  We do not have an RV yet, but know the top three factories that we plan to visit before ordering (which would be DRV, Heartland, and Carriage).  I have signed up for quite a few forums, including the Escapees, the Carriage forum, and the DRV forum.  We were just recently introduced to the Heartland line at the Fall Rally, and checked them out at the Hershey show.  We found that we really liked them so much as to include them in our top 3. We are planning on making our transition from the "sticks and bricks" into full-timing in 2013 or 2014. 

As for choosing a domicile state, after Bob and I sell our home in Pennsylvania ("the land of taxes"), we intend on living most of the time in Texas which does not tax Social Security or Retired Miliary pay (which Bob receives).  The Escapees have a great deal going down there in Livingston, Texas, from what I have learned.  Their mail forwarding service is great (from what I have heard), and once you cannot travel any more, there is the CARE program where you can live out the rest of your days in your own RV and there are people that will come in and care for your needs.  We chose Texas because we love the state, their "politics", their weather, and their people.  We have lived in Texas before, so we know what it's like.  Also, if you are an active voter (which we are), Livingston has it all figured out.  There is no personal income tax.  The state sales tax is at 6.25%, just 1/4% higher than PA.  There is no property tax on vehicles, however a state emissions test is required in most counties (not in Polk where Livingston is), and diesel powered vehicles are exempt.  (www.txdps.state.tx.us/vi) Texas requires an annual vehicle safety inspection.    All of the above information can be found in "Choosing Your RV Home Base", Roundabout Publications, copyright 2010. 

Isn't research fun ?? 

(Bob and) Kathy

 

 

RESULTS OF AN ON-LINE SEARCH "MAINE STATE INCOME TAX"

Individual Income Tax (1040ME)
Maine generally imposes an income tax on all individuals that have Maine-source income. The income tax rates are graduated, with rates ranging from 2% to 8.5%.