Delinquent taxes are property taxes that weren't paid by the deadline. Once delinquent, your tax bill begins accumulating penalties and interest—amounts that can add up quickly.
In Texas, property taxes become delinquent on February 1 (after the January 31 deadline). A 6% penalty is immediately added, with additional penalties accruing through July when the total penalty reaches 12%. Interest also accrues at 1% per month.
California taxes become delinquent after December 10 (first installment) and April 10 (second installment), with a 10% penalty added to late payments.
Delinquent taxes escalate quickly. What starts as a missed deadline can become a cascade of penalties, legal fees, and ultimately the risk of losing your home.
If you're struggling to pay:
• Contact your county immediately — Payment plans may be available
• Check for exemptions — You may qualify for relief you haven't claimed
• Appeal your assessment — Lowering your value reduces what you owe going forward
• Seniors/disabled: Tax deferral programs let you postpone payment
Prevention is the best strategy. Lower your tax burden before it becomes unmanageable.
A Texas homeowner misses their January 31 deadline on an $8,000 tax bill:
February 1: $8,000 + 6% penalty ($480) = $8,480
March 1: + 1% penalty + 1% interest = $8,640
July 1: + additional penalty (12% total) + interest = $9,280+
After July 1, the delinquent account may be referred to a collection attorney, adding another 15-20% in fees.
Potential total owed: $10,000+ on an original $8,000 bill
Penalties and interest turn a manageable tax bill into a serious financial burden.
In Texas, penalties start at 6% in February and reach 12% by July, plus 1% monthly interest, plus potential 15-20% attorney fees. California adds a 10% penalty for late installments. Costs vary by state and county.
Many counties offer payment plans for delinquent taxes. Contact your county tax collector to discuss options. Getting on a plan can stop additional penalties and prevent your property from going to tax sale.
Property tax delinquencies don't typically appear on credit reports directly. However, if a tax lien is filed and recorded, it can affect your ability to sell, refinance, or borrow against your property.