Property taxes in Texas are generally due upon receipt of your tax bill, but the key deadline to pay without penalties is typically January 31 of the following year. For 2026 taxes (based on January 1, 2025 valuations), this means aiming for January 31, 2026 —though since it falls on a Saturday, many counties extend to the next business day, like Monday, February 2.

Quick Facts on Deadlines

Texas doesn't have a uniform statewide due date set by law; it's handled at the county level, but patterns hold across most areas:

  • Bills mailed : Usually October-November after tax rates are finalized.
  • Delinquency starts : February 1, triggering penalties (starting at 6% + 1% interest, rising monthly).
  • County variations : Check your local tax assessor-collector (e.g., Bexar County's second half-payment due June 30 for some).

Aspect| Standard Date| 2026 Note 1
---|---|---
Bills Sent| Oct-Nov| Fall 2025 for 2026 taxes
Pay Without Penalty| Jan 31| Sat → likely Feb 2 (verify county)
Delinquent| Feb 1| Penalties begin
Attorney Fees (Business)| Apr 3| Bexar example 9

Why January 31 Matters Most

Imagine getting your bill in late October for your Austin home—plenty of time to budget, right? But life happens: holidays, travel, or escrow mix-ups push payments to the wire. That's why "taxes due by Jan 31" trends every January in Texas forums; last-minute searches spike as folks scramble amid payment portal glitches or mail delays. Always confirm via your county's site—e.g., Travis or Harris might post exact 2026 adjustments by now.

Payment Options & Tips

  • Online/mail/in-person : Most counties offer all; pay early to dodge weekend issues.
  • Escrow : If mortgaged, your lender handles it—check statements.
  • Can't pay? Installment plans or deferrals exist for seniors/disabled, but act before Feb 1.
  • Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder for mid-January; penalties snowball fast (up to 12% by July).

County-Specific Nuances

While uniform in spirit, locals differ:

  • Bexar : Split payments possible; June 30 for second half.
  • Harris/Travis : Stick to Jan 31, with business extensions.

Trending discussions note 2026's Saturday quirk causing confusion—forum users urge calling your assessor ASAP.

TL;DR Bottom : Pay by Jan 31 (or next business day in 2026) to avoid fees; verify your county for exacts.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.