When Are Hillsborough County Property Taxes Due?

Property taxes in Hillsborough County, Florida, support various essential public services. These taxes are assessed annually on real estate and fund local government operations. The revenue generated helps support critical services such as public education, emergency services, and infrastructure improvements.

Key Dates for Property Tax Payments

Property tax bills in Hillsborough County are typically mailed to property owners around November 1st each year. These taxes cover the calendar year and become payable upon receipt. Property owners have several months to submit payments without incurring penalties.

The full amount of property taxes is due by March 31st of the following year. Property taxes become delinquent if not paid by April 1st, at which point unpaid taxes begin to accrue additional charges. Property owners are responsible for knowing the amount due and paying it on time, even if a tax bill is not received.

How to Pay Your Property Taxes

Hillsborough County offers various methods for property owners to pay their annual tax obligations. Online payment is available through the county tax collector’s website, accepting credit/debit cards and e-checks, though credit card payments may incur a convenience fee.

Payments can also be made by mail. Checks or money orders should be payable to the Hillsborough County Tax Collector and mailed to the designated Post Office Box address. Include your tax bill stub for proper processing. In-person payments are accepted at Tax Collector office locations during business hours, with many offering secure drop boxes for after-hours submissions.

Bill pay services through financial institutions are another option; include the account number from the tax notice for correct application. Hillsborough County also offers installment payment plans for eligible taxpayers, allowing for quarterly payments rather than a single lump sum.

Understanding Discounts and Penalties

Hillsborough County provides incentives for early payment of property taxes through a tiered discount system. Property owners who pay in November receive a 4% discount on their total bill. The discount decreases to 3% for payments made in December, 2% in January, and 1% in February. No discount applies if the payment is made in March.

Once property taxes become delinquent on April 1st, financial consequences are imposed. An initial 3% interest charge is added to the unpaid balance, along with advertising costs. If taxes remain unpaid, interest accrues at 18% per year, calculated monthly, on the delinquent amount.

Continued delinquency can lead to the sale of a tax certificate. By June 1st, the Tax Collector holds a tax certificate sale for all unpaid property taxes. This allows third-party investors to pay delinquent taxes, interest, and fees in exchange for a lien on the property. If taxes remain unpaid for two years from the delinquency date, the certificate holder may initiate a tax deed application, which can lead to the property being sold at public auction.