Property Taxes in Fort Bend County
Let’s get this out of the way: Fort Bend County often ranks as having the highest property taxes in Texas. The average effective property tax rate is 2.23%, and most homeowners pay over $5,000 a year in taxes. There are many special tax districts in Fort Bend County (over 200!) that require levies on top of the usual property taxes — a major contributing factor in the high rates residents pay.
Comparing Fort Bend Property Taxes to Other Counties
You know that Fort Bend County is at the top, but what other counties compare? Well, El Paso County is very close at an average of 2.22%, as is Webb County. Tarrant County is close at 2.16%, with cities like Fort Worth racking up even higher rates. Harris County is similar at an average of 2.09%, but major cities such as Houston hit those high rates. At 2.03%, Hidalgo County is getting up there, and it too has cities that are in line with Ford Bend’s rates.
Fort Bend County Property Tax Due Date
In all of Texas, you have to pay your property taxes by January 31st, though they’re technically due as soon as you receive your tax bill. If the calendar hits February 1st and you still haven’t paid, you owe Fort Bend County delinquent property taxes.
How to Pay Fort Bend County Delinquent Taxes
Whether you’re delinquent or not, the tax assessor’s office outlines how to pay Fort Bend property taxes. Residents have numerous payment options, including:
- Cash
- Check
- Credit card
- Debit card
You can pay either in person or online. Keep in mind that you must use a card or e-check if paying online. Additionally, Fort Bend charges a convenience fee for authorizing credit and debit card payments.
Can Current Events Impact Fort Bend County Delinquent Property Taxes?
Yes. The county can alter various aspects of the payment or delinquency process due to issues outside of their control. For example, in 2020, there have been numerous operational changes due to COVID-19. Most of these are related to health protocols for in-person interactions. Always check for the latest updates on the tax assessor’s website when looking for information on your Fort Bend County delinquent property taxes.
What Happens if Your Fort Bend Taxes Stay Delinquent?
If you continue to owe Fort Bend County delinquent taxes, there will be worsening consequences, including, but not limited to, the following:
- You’ll incur fees and penalties that will steadily increase over time until you pay all of your debts.
- With a tax lien placed on your property, the county can foreclose on your home at any time — Fort Bend keeps a foreclosure list online.
- Once the foreclosure happens, your precinct constable can conduct a property tax sale in which the deed to your home will be sold — you (or the trustee of your property) will be notified of this action, and it can only be halted if you pay all Fort Bend County delinquent property taxes and debts.
Getting Help with Fort Bend Delinquent Taxes
It is possible to get assistance with your Fort Bend County delinquent property taxes. Primarily, property owners can seek exemptions. The tax assessor’s office offers guidelines for getting a homestead exemption in Fort Bend County, the most common type. However, this isn’t possible for everyone. If you’re looking for fast, effective relief, you might be better off getting a property tax loan.
Settle Your Fort Bend County Delinquent Property Taxes Now
When you fill out an application for a loan from Tax Ease, you’ll quickly be on your way to paying off your debts. We’ll cover your Fort Bend County delinquent property taxes, and you’ll be able to pay us back on a schedule that works within your budget. Reach out today!