How Long Can Property Taxes Go Unpaid in Texas?
Important Deadlines & What Homeowners Need to Know Before 2026
December brings celebrations, travel, and family gatherings, but for many Texas homeowners, it also brings an important financial reminder: property taxes are due January 31st, and penalties begin to quicklyadd up if you fall behind.
This guide discusses Texas tax guidelines, 2026 penalty timelines, and real county
procedures to help you act before fees increase.
How Long Can Texas Property Taxes Go Unpaid?
In Texas, property taxes are due on January 31st. On February 1st, any unpaid balance becomes delinquent under state law, and you will face an immediate 7% penalty. Fees and penalties continue to accrueeach month, with one of the steepest rates beginning in July. How steep? You’ll see a total 41.6% increase as of July 1st. That’s 18% in penalties and interest as well as 15-20% in attorney fees. Get more details from our penalties and interest chart here.
Penalty Timeline for Unpaid Property Taxes
According to the Texas Comptroller and Texas Tax Code Chapter 33:
- February 1st: Taxes become delinquent. A 6% penalty + 1% monthly interest begins to accrue.
- March–June: An additional 1% interest is charged every month on the unpaid balance.
- July 1st: There may be an additional penalty to defray attorney or collection costs on taxes that become delinquent between Feb 1st and May 1st and remain unpaid on July 1st. This additional penalty is typically up to 20% of the taxes, penalties and interest due.
- The following year: Nonpayment may lead to foreclosure proceedings.
How Long Before Foreclosure Begins?
Texas law does not set a strict number of months before foreclosure can begin. Instead:
- In Texas, the law states that the county is eligible to begin foreclosure proceedings on a delinquent homeowner any time after July 1st.
- The timeline varies by county. Some may wait years, while others begin the process within months.
Although counties have the legal authority to foreclose, their primary goal is to collect taxes, not take homes. Many counties encourage payment plans or communication before pursuing legal action.
How You’ll Know Foreclosure Proceedings Are Starting
Before foreclosure can occur:
- The county is required by law to notify you that they are pursuing a foreclosure.
- You’ll then be served with notice of the foreclosure lawsuit.
- However, even after you’ve been served with a foreclosure lawsuit, you still have time to stop the foreclosure process and save your home.
Why Homeowners Fall Behind in December
Many homeowners struggle during the holiday season due to:
- High seasonal spending
- Travel costs
- Limited county office hours
- Delays in mailed tax statements
- General end-of-year financial pressure
This makes December one of the most common months Texans fall behind.
Payment Options for Homeowners Behind on Taxes
1. Tax Deferrals
In some situations, you can defer your property taxes. The state of Texas offers deferments, if the following criteria is met:
- Age 65+
- Individuals with disabilities
- Disabled veterans
During a deferral, foreclosure is paused.
2. County Payment Plans
Many counties offer payment plans, but requirements vary. Contact your county directly.
3. Credit Card Payments
Some counties allow credit card payments, but interest rates can make this an expensive option.
4. Property Tax Loans
A property tax loan can help stop escalating penalties, prevent foreclosure, and create manageable monthly payments. These loans can also refinance existing tax loans if payments feel overwhelming. Property tax loans are designed to offer budget-friendly solutions and pay your taxes fast. Some loans, like the ones at Johnson and Starr, aren’t dependent on credit scores.
Why Homeowners Choose Johnson & Starr in December
- Fast approvals, even during holiday weeks
- Flexible monthly payments built for real budgets
- Refinancing options for existing property tax loans
- A quick, supportive process designed to reduce stress
Get Ahead Before 2026 Begins
Penalties rise quickly once February 1st hits. Taking action in December can save hundreds or even thousands of fees and protect your home.
Contact Johnson & Starr today to start a repayment plan or explore refinancing options. Give us a call at 1-800-203-9157 or book your 15-minute loan consultation here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When are Texas property taxes officially considered delinquent?
February 1st of the year following the tax year.
How fast do penalties and interest add up?
A 6% penalty begins on February 1st, plus 1% interest added monthly.
Can you lose your home in Texas for unpaid property taxes?
Yes. Texas law allows foreclosure once taxes become delinquent, and procedures are followed.
Does setting up a payment plan stop penalties?
Some counties may reduce or pause additional penalties depending on the plan.
Will a property tax loan affect my credit?
Property tax loans generally do not require or impact credit scores.
Can I refinance an existing property tax loan?
Yes. Homeowners often refinance to secure lower monthly payments.
What if I can’t pay before February 1st?
You can still explore repayment plans or a property tax loan before penalties escalate.
Do counties offer hardship programs?
Yes. Seniors, disabled individuals, and disabled veterans may qualify for deferrals.
Are county offices open during the holidays?
Most operate with reduced hours or closures in late December and early January, so early action is recommended.
Sources:
- Texas Comptroller — Handbook of Texas Property Taxe Rules: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/rules/index.php
- Texas Tax Code Chapter 33 — Delinquency, Penalties, Attorney Fees, and Foreclosure:
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TX/htm/TX.33.htm - Texas Comptroller — Penalties & Interest:
https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/penalty-interest/chart2024-25.php - Texas Comptroller — Property Taxpayer Bill of Rights:
https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/bill-of-rights.php