What happens if I don’t pay my property taxes on time?

If you live in Washington, you must pay your property taxes on time or else you could face penalties. First, you will be charged a late penalty for not meeting the deadline. This late penalty is typically 1% of the unpaid taxes for each month your payment is late, up to 12% total. Additionally, interest will accrue on unpaid taxes. This interest follows the same rules as the late penalty, and can reach up to 12% if you are more than 12 months late. The county you live in will also place a lien on your property if you do not pay your property taxes on time. This means that a claim is placed on your property and will remain until the debt is paid. This means that you cannot refinance or sell your home until the debt is paid. Furthermore, the county can also choose to foreclose on your property if the taxes remain unpaid for 1-3 years. This means that they will take ownership of your home and may choose to sell it in order to recoup their money. Paying your property taxes on time is essential in order to avoid these additional fines and fees. If you are having trouble paying your taxes, you can reach out to the county’s treasurer office and ask about payment plans or other forms of assistance.

Related FAQs

What happens if my property value increases?
What is a tax deferral program?
What is a special assessment?
What is a property tax assessment appeal?
How can I reduce my property tax bill?
What is a property tax assessment appeal law?
What credits or deductions can I get for my property taxes?
How do I apply for property tax relief?
What are the common exemptions to property tax?
What is a “split roll” property tax system?

Related Blog Posts

A Guide to Understanding Property Tax Laws - July 31, 2023
Comprehensive Overview of Property Tax Regulations - August 7, 2023
What Every Property Owner Should Know About Property Tax Laws - August 14, 2023
Calculating Property Tax Liability in Simple Steps - August 21, 2023
Exemptions and Deductions: Lowering Your Property Tax Bill - August 28, 2023