where to pay property taxes

You generally pay property taxes to your local government office where the property is located, not to the federal government.

Main places to pay

• County or city tax collector / treasurer’s office (name varies by area; sometimes it’s the “tax collector,” “treasurer‑tax collector,” or “revenue” office).

• Through your mortgage lender’s escrow account, if your mortgage servicer collects taxes with your monthly payment and pays the bill on your behalf.

• Online via your local government’s property tax or treasurer website, using e‑check, card, or other electronic options where offered.

• By mail, sending a check or money order to the address printed on your property tax bill.

• In person at the address listed on the bill (often the county courthouse or tax office).

How to find your exact payment location

• Check your property tax bill:
  • It will list the office name (for example, “County Treasurer‑Tax Collector”) and mailing and in‑person payment addresses.

• Search “[your county or city] property tax payment” or use official portals (for example, some cities use a “my property” site where you can look up your account and pay online).

• If you’re unsure, call the general information number for your city or county government and ask for the office that handles property tax payments.

Common payment methods

• In many areas you can:
  • Pay in one or two installments directly to the local tax office each year.

* Enroll in an escrow arrangement through your mortgage so the servicer pays the tax for you.

* Use online portals, phone payments, mail, or in‑person payments, depending on what your local office supports.

If you tell the country/state or city/county where your property is, a more specific link or office name can be narrowed down.