The Deadline Every Texas Homeowner Needs to Know
When are Texas property taxes due? January 31 is the deadline. Learn about penalties, payment options, and what happens if you pay late.
January 31. That's the date every Texas homeowner needs to remember when it comes to property taxes. Miss this deadline and you'll pay more than you owe—penalties and interest start accumulating immediately on February 1.
Understanding this deadline—and the consequences of missing it—can save you money and stress. Here's what you need to know—and what it costs if you miss the deadline.
The January 31 Deadline
Property taxes in Texas are due January 31 following the tax year. For example:
- 2025 property taxes are due January 31, 2026
- 2026 property taxes will be due January 31, 2027
Key Points
- Taxes are due upon receipt of your bill (typically mailed in October)
- You don't have to wait until January to pay—many homeowners pay in October, November, or December
- If January 31 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the deadline extends to the next business day (Monday)
Why Pay Early?
Some counties offer early payment discounts (typically 1-3% if you pay in October, November, or December). Check with your county tax assessor-collector to see if discounts are available.
What Happens If You Pay Late
Beginning February 1, unpaid property taxes become delinquent and accrue penalties and interest:
| Month | Penalty | Interest | Total Added |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | 6% | 1% | 7% |
| March | 7% | 2% | 9% |
| April | 8% | 3% | 11% |
| May | 9% | 4% | 13% |
| June | 10% | 5% | 15% |
| July | 12% | 6% | 18% |
After July 1
- Penalty remains at 12%
- Interest continues at 1% per month
- An additional 20% collection fee may be added if the account is referred to a collection attorney
Example
If you owe $18,000 in property taxes (typical for an $850,000-$950,000 home):
- Pay by January 31: $18,000
- Pay in March: $18,000 + $1,620 (9%) = $19,620
- Pay in July: $18,000 + $3,240 (18%) = $21,240
- Pay in July after attorney referral: $18,000 + $3,240 + $3,600 (20%) = $24,840
That's an extra $6,840 on an $18,000 bill—money better spent elsewhere. The penalties add up quickly. Paying on time—or as early as possible if you've already missed the deadline—minimizes the damage.
What If You Don't Receive a Bill?
Under Texas law, you're responsible for paying your property taxes whether or not you receive a bill. If you don't receive one:
- 1Check the tax assessor-collector's website—most allow you to look up your property and view/pay your bill online
- 2Contact the tax office to request a copy
- 3Don't assume no bill means no taxes owed
Common Reasons for Not Receiving a Bill
- Recent home purchase (bill may have gone to previous owner)
- Address change not updated
- Mail delivery issues
Payment Options
Most Texas counties offer multiple payment options:
Online
Most tax assessor-collector offices accept online payments via their websites. You can typically pay by:
- Credit card (fees may apply)
- Debit card (fees may apply)
- E-check/ACH (often no fee or lower fee)
Mail or In-Person
Mail your payment to the address on your tax bill (include the payment stub and allow time for delivery), or visit the tax assessor-collector's office during business hours.
Mortgage Escrow
If you have a mortgage with an escrow account, your lender likely pays your property taxes on your behalf from funds collected with your monthly mortgage payment. Verify with your lender—and check that they're paying on time to avoid penalties.
Payment Plans
If you're unable to pay in full, many taxing units offer payment plans—particularly for:
- Homeowners over 65
- Disabled homeowners
- Homeowners facing financial hardship
Contact your tax assessor-collector's office to discuss options.
Key Takeaways
- Property taxes are due January 31
- Penalties start February 1 at 7% and increase monthly
- By July, you could owe 18% or more in penalties and interest—plus a 20% collection fee
- No bill in the mail? You still owe the taxes—look it up online
- Pay early if your county offers discounts
Plan Ahead
Remember: if you successfully protest your property value, your tax bill will be adjusted. But protests must be filed by May 15—well before the January payment deadline.
For a complete view of all property tax deadlines throughout the year—including protest deadlines—see our Property Tax Calendar or visit domutax.com/tax-calendar.
