A Guide to Delinquent Property Taxes in Texas

If you have recently fallen behind paying your Texas property taxes, the situation can feel quite overwhelming. Whether due to financial hardship, unexpected expenses, or simple timing issues, unpaid taxes can quickly become a larger problem as penalties and interest accumulate. Knowing how delinquent property taxes work in Texas and what options are available can help you take control before the situation escalates.

This guide explains when property taxes become delinquent, what happens if they remain unpaid, and the most common ways homeowners resolve delinquent balances.

When Are Property Taxes Considered Delinquent in Texas?

Texas property taxes are due by January 31st each year. If payment is not received by that deadline, the taxes become delinquent starting February 1st.

Important note: If January 31 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, Texas law allows the deadline to move to the following Monday. Because January 31, 2026, falls on a Saturday, the first day of delinquency this year begins on February 2, 2026.

Once taxes are delinquent, additional charges are applied to the original balance. According to Texas law, you are subject to a 7% penalty immediately on February 1st. From there, interest and penalties continue to accrue monthly, with one of the largest hits in July for most counties. After July, interest continues to increase with an additional 1% penalty added each month. Check out our Texas property taxes penalty chart here.

What Happens After Taxes Go Unpaid?

Delinquent property taxes trigger more than just higher balances. When taxes remain unpaid, the taxing authority places a lien on the property. This lien gives the county or taxing entity a legal claim against the home until the debt is satisfied.

Is There a Time Limit Before Foreclosure Begins?

Texas law does not require counties to follow a single timeline, so some homeowners may face foreclosure sooner than others, depending on the county and the tax year. Once a lien is placed on your property, taxing entities can decide when to begin foreclosure proceedings on a case-by-case basis.

Because the timing varies, homeowners often underestimate how quickly the situation can escalate. Acting early can help prevent additional fees and reduce the risk of losing the property.

Options for Resolving Delinquent Property Taxes

Homeowners who cannot immediately pay their full tax balance still have several ways to address delinquency:

County Payment Arrangements

Some counties offer installment agreements that allow delinquent taxes to be paid over time. Availability and terms vary by location.

Personal Loans from Family or Friends

Borrowing from someone you trust can be helpful, but it’s important to set clear repayment terms to avoid added stress.

Credit Card Payments

Paying by credit card can resolve the delinquency quickly, but high interest rates often make this a costly long-term solution.

Property Tax Loans from a Trusted Lender

Property tax loans pay off delinquent taxes in full and replace county penalties with a structured repayment plan. These loans are often designed to be more manageable than county collections and often offer a lower rate than credit cards.

How Johnson & Starr Helps Homeowners

Johnson & Starr works with Texas homeowners to resolve delinquent property taxes through flexible loan solutions. Rather than dealing with escalating penalties or rigid county terms, homeowners receive a repayment plan tailored to their specific situation.

The process is straightforward:

• Apply online or call 800-203-9157 to speak with a licensed loan officer.
• Information is reviewed and verified for approval.
• A customized repayment plan is created.
• Property taxes are paid in full.

If delinquent taxes are causing stress or uncertainty, Johnson & Starr can help you take the next step toward protecting your home.