Although property taxes is mainly a state issue in Texas it has time and again proven to be a financial load to many homeowners and business entities. Knowing when property taxes are due and how they should be paid cannot be overemphasized to avoid late payment penalties and interests. In this article we will be discussing the due dates for property taxes in Texas, the penalties for non-payment before the due dates and how to contest property taxes assessed.
Property Tax Payment Deadline In Texas
Due Dates For Property Taxes In Texas
For properties located in Texas, taxes are paid annually, and due on January 31st. However its payment is divided into four proportions and allowed to be paid at equal intervals of three months beginning with the 30th of July to September the 30th of November and January the 31st. It is also important to state that any tax not paid by February 1 turns into delinquent and will attract penalty and interest charges.
Consequences Of Missing The Deadline
Since deadlines are important parts of the project and planning, their missed solely results in the following consequences:
If one fails to fill the property tax, he or she is subjected to punishment in the form of penalties, interest among other punishments leading to foreclosure of the property. There is also the penalty for the unpaid taxes, according to the legislation of Texas, this is 6%, and the interest, together with the main sum, is to be increased by 1% monthly. The taxes, when unpaid the taxing authority is allowed to place a lien on the property which results in foreclosure.
How To Pay Property Taxes In Texas
Thus, property taxes can be paid personally, through the mail or through the internet. The vast majority of the counties that comprise Texas enable the process of online payments, and various methods can be used, with credit / debit cards and electronic check being some of them. This has a validity especially when there is a dispute; where the person who received the money will have to prove that they actually received payment.
Appealing Your Property Tax Assessment
Property owners who perhaps do not agree with the manner in which their properties was rated for taxation may approach an Appraisal Review Board (ARB). They also make determine whether or not the assessment made about them is fair and accurate by referring it to the ARB. The taxpayer can also consult a property tax consultant or a lawyer in order to follow the appeal process correctly.
When Are Property Taxes Due In Williamson County Texas?
Williamson County, Texas residents are expected to pay their property taxes by January 31st, a payment made after the set date attracts a 7% penalty and attracts interest from February 1st. The Williamson County Tax Assessor Collector’s Office is a local government office mandated with the duty of collecting property taxes for Williamson County and other established juridictions. For further details you can visit through Williamson County web site.
How Often Do You Pay Property Tax On A House In Texas?
The payment of taxes on properties is done on a yearly basis in Texas with the full amount due by the last day of January every year. However, taxpayers have the option to pay their property taxes in installments, with four equal payments due on. However, taxpayers have the option to pay their property taxes in installments, with four equal payments due on:
- July 31st (first installment)
- September 30th (second installment)
- November 30th (third installment)
- January 31st, fourth and final payment.
Are Property Taxes Paid Twice A Year In Texas?
Property taxes in Texas do not have to be paid twice a year, there is only one kind of basis on which they can be paid – annual. Property taxes can be paid in installments; however, the money for property taxes has to be paid in full before January 31st of the given year. That instalment payments are only an attempt to defer the payment for one year and divide it into more parts.
Note: Only a few taxing authorities in Texas allow the semi-annual payment plan where taxpayers are required to make payments in June and December but not in all states.
Conclusion
In Texas, property taxes can be confusing and quite demanding, however, property taxpayers should acquaint themselves with the due dates as well as the action that will be taken if they fail to meet the date, and the procedure of appealing the assessment made. Just as a reminder, the property taxes are due on the January 31st and if they are not paid, then the consequences stated earlier are imposed. If you need any further clarification or if you have any issues with a particular bill, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a property tax professional or a lawyer.
