Delinquent Tax Questions
WHEN DO TAXES BECOME DELINQUENT?
Unpaid taxes become delinquent on April 1st. For payments received on or after April 1st of each year, the amount due is determined by when payment is received by the Tax Collector's Office. Postmarks can no longer be a considered factor.
CAN PROPERTY BE LOST DUE TO NON-PAYMENT?
Yes. (see Delinquent Taxes for additional information.)
WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEVER RECEIVE A TAX BILL?
It is the responsibility of each property owner to see that the taxes are paid. Taxes are due and payable even if a tax bill is never received (pursuant to F.S.). It is also the responsibility of the property owner to make sure payment is received by our office.
We mail tax bills and/or reminders pursuant to Chapter 197 of the Florida Statutes. The reason for this law is so the property owner can protect themselves from possible consequences that may occur due to non-payment. Once the tax bills and/or your return payment is mailed, it is in the hands of the postal system. They generally do a great job...however, things do happen!
WHAT IF I RECENTLY PURCHASED MY PROPERTY?
No matter when you purchase your property, as the owner, you are responsible for paying the entire tax bill which is generally mailed in November. For instance, if you buy your home in June, you will be mailed a tax bill which will reflect taxes for the entire year. However, taxes are generally pro-rated on the closing statement and the seller gives credit for the time during the year that you were not the owner. You should verify your closing statement to ensure you received the proper credit. This credit is a transaction between the buyer and the seller. No money is actually paid to the Tax Collector as a partial payment of that year's taxes.
WHAT IF MY TAXES ARE TO BE PAID BY MY MORTGAGE COMPANY?
In cases where a mortgage company (escrow account) is supposed to pay the taxes, the mortgage company, meeting criteria established by the Tax Collector, may request and be sent the tax bill. Most mortgage companies use a "service company" who may combine hundreds of different mortgage companies in a single tape payment. The property owner will receive a copy of the bill for informational purposes only.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR HOMESTEAD TAX DEFERRAL
Anyone who QUALIFIES. (see other questions regarding Homestead Tax Deferral.) If you qualify and elect to defer, YOU ARE PLACING A LIEN AGAINST THE PROPERTY with an interest rate set each year by the Florida Department of Revenue. This cannot exceed 7%.
WHAT IF I HAVE SOLD MY PROPERTY AND STILL GET A TAX BILL IN MY NAME?
Please send the tax notice to the new owners or return it to the Tax Collector's Office immediately.
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