KW Success Realty
April Davis, KW Success Realty Phone: (850) 774-7221
Email: [email protected]

Tax facts: Property tax late fees & more

by April Davis 11/24/2022

Like most recurring expenses, property taxes have late fees if not paid on time. While the amount and specific consequences vary from one municipality to the next, property tax late fees are something homeowners will want to avoid. Here are some basic facts about paying your property taxes on-time and in the correct amount:

How property taxes are calculated

Property taxes are calculated based on many factors. However, you can estimate them for yourself by multiplying the assessed value of the home by the local tax rate. The number you come up with is likely not the exact amount you'll see on your bill, but it's a great way to familiarize yourself with the general amount.

How to pay your property taxes

Luckily, most property tax payments get wrapped into your monthly mortgage payments. Otherwise, you have the choice of paying the taxes directly on an annual or semi-annual basis. Depending on your tax authority, this may mean writing and mailing a check or paying through an online portal.

How to know if you qualify for exemptions

There are some exemptions for property taxes. Some of the most common exemption types are available to seniors, people with disabilities, veterans and homesteaders. These exemptions usually don't eliminate taxes completely, but can significantly reduce the cost.

What happens if you don't pay your taxes

If you fail to pay your taxes, you'll get a tax lien placed on your home. Liens can adversely affect your credit score, and if taxes are left unpaid for too long, they can become levies allowing the government to seize your property. It's important to stay up to date on your property taxes and reach out to a professional if you expect any issues paying on time.

About the Author
Author

April Davis

Congratulations!! You have found The Agent who truly believes in treating others the way she would want to be treated. I was NOT born a Bay County resident; I'm a transplant from Georgia. This actually gives me a bit of an edge in seeing things through the vision of a newcomer. This edge is the fact that I've done all the research and traveling to find the attractions, benefits, events and a wealth of other information most new arrivals to beautiful Bay County are seeking to find. I will walk that mile (or more) with YOU to find YOUR IDEAL IMAGE HOME. Although each of us has different wishes for our homes, we can all agree that we want it to be "A place of refuge, comfort, hope, memories and happiness". I know Bay County extensively and I'm familiar with being in the military "family". I am an extremely proud Retired Air Force spouse. My motto as your agent is: "It is my mission to treat YOU as I would desire to be treated". I would like to help you with full integrity, on a timely basis and with positively your best interest at heart. If you are currently a Bay County resident and wish to sell or purchase a home, please consider my services as well...because; that same integrity used for newcomers will be exactly the same for locals!