News releases,
articles and announcements regarding Travis County Tax Office activities
will be placed here. Check back often or follow us on Twitter and/or
Facebook!
May 24, 2013 - FINAL TAX FORUM OF THE SEASON - DON'T MISS IT!
May 17, 2013 - Property Tax Forum Next Thursday, May 23rd!
May 14, 2013 - TONIGHT: Pleasant Hill Library, 6:00pm. This event is free and open to the public!
May 10th, 2013- Only three more property tax forums coming up!
Join Chief Appraiser Marya Crigler and Tax Assessor-Collector Bruce Elfant next Tuesday, May 14th
at 6pm!
May 6, 2013 - Tonight at 7pm, join us at the Trinity United Methodist Church as the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association hosts an important property tax forum. This event is FREE and all Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
May 2, 2013 - DON'T MISS OUT! Only a handful of property tax forum dates remain! Take this opportunity to ask Chief Appraiser Marya Crigler and Tax-Assessor Collector Bruce Elfant questions about property appraisals and taxes in-person!
There are two chances to attend one of these important forums coming up next week.
Monday, May 6th at 7:00pm
Trinity United Methodist Church This event is being hosted by the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association. All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
4001 Speedway
Austin, TX 78753 Download a flyer for the May 6th Property Tax Forum here
Thursday, May 9th at 7:00pm This event is being hosted by the Southwood Neighborhood Association. All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
1820 W. Stassney Lane - Room 1130
Austin, TX 78745 Download a flyer for the May 9th Property Tax Forum here
April 30, 2013 - Join us tonight at the Milwood Library located at 12500 Amherst Drive at 6pm for this important community property tax forum! This even is FREE and open to the public!
April 26, 2013 - TAKE INITIATIVE! BECOME A VOLUNTEER DEPUTY REGISTRAR!
Help citizens register to vote by becoming a Volunteer Deputy Registrar. Volunteer Deputy Registrars promote voter registration most commonly at community events and within their own social networks. They distribute voter registration applications and confirm that all of the applications they provide are completed correctly. They also provide a receipt to show proof of registration and deliver applications to the Voter Registrar within 5 days of completion.
“Helping citizens register to vote is a rewarding activity that makes a real impact on our community,” said Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar, Bruce Elfant.
How can you become a Volunteer Deputy Registrar (VDR)? To volunteer, you must be age 18 or older and must attend a one-hour training session. During training, you will review the qualifications to become a VDR, learn how to register voters correctly and be officially sworn-in.
All training sessions are held the first Tuesday of the month. The next session will be held May 7th.One-hour sessions that day will be held starting at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in the main Travis County Tax Office located at 5501 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78751.
April 25, 2013 - Property Tax Forum Dates for Next Week!
Maybe you are a new homeowner with questions about your property taxes. Or maybe you are a long time resident with questions about exemptions. Chief Appraiser Marya Crigler and Tax Assessor-Collector Bruce Elfant present information about the appraisal process, exemptions and deferrals, payment plans, and the deadlines all property owners should know. Most importantly, they plan to answer any questions you have for them!
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest details! Call (512) 854-9473 during business hours for further assistance.
April 23, 2013 - Full Property Tax Forum Dates Released!
April 18, 2013 - Three Chances to Attend! Don't Miss Next Week's Property Tax Forums!
Maybe you are a new homeowner with questions about your property taxes. Or maybe you are a long time resident with questions about exemptions. Chief Appraiser Marya Crigler and Tax Assessor-Collector Bruce Elfant present information about the appraisal process, exemptions and deferrals, payment plans, and the deadlines all property owners should know. Most importantly, they plan to answer any questions you have for them!
Wednesday, April 24th at 7:00pm This event is being hosted by the Austin Neighborhood Council.
All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
Austin Energy Headquarters
721 Barton Springs Road - Shudde Fath Conference Room
Austin, TX 78704 Download a flyer for the April 24th Property Tax Forum here.
Thursday, April 25th at 6:00pm
This event is being hosted by the Blackshear/Prospect Hill Neighborhood Association.
All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
Carver Library
1161 Angelina Street
Austin, TX 78702 Download a flyer for the April 25th Property Tax Forum here.
Maybe you are a new homeowner with questions about your property taxes. Or maybe you are a long time resident with questions about exemptions. Chief Appraiser Marya Crigler and Tax Assessor-Collector Bruce Elfant present information about the appraisal process, exemptions and deferrals, payment plans, and the deadlines all property owners should know. Most importantly, they plan to answer any questions you have for them!
All events are free and open to the public.
Monday, April 22nd at 6:00pm
Willie Mae Kirk Library
3101 Oak Springs Drive
Austin, TX 78702
Wednesday, April 24th at 7:00pm This event is being hosted by the Austin Neighborhood Council. All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
Austin Energy Headquarters
721 Barton Springs Road - Shudde Fath Conference Room
Austin, TX 78704
Thursday, April 25th at 6:00pm This event is being hosted by the Blackshear/Prospect Hill Neighborhood Association. All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
Carver Library
1161 Angelina Street
Austin, TX 78702
Tuesday, April 30th at 6:00pm
Milwood Library
12500 Amherst Drive
Austin, TX 78727
Thursday, May 2nd at 6:00pm
City of Jonestown City Council Chambers
18649 FM 1431 - Suite 3A
Jonestown, TX 78645
Monday, May 6th at 7:00pm This event is being hosted by the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association.
All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
Trinity United Methodist Church
4001 Speedway Austin, TX 78753
Thursday, May 9th at 7:00pm This event is being hosted by the Southwood Neighborhood Association. All Travis County residents are welcome to attend.
ACC South Austin Campus
1820 W. Stassney Lane - Room 1130
Austin, TX 78745
Tuesday, May 14th at 6:00pm
Pleasant Hill Library
211 E. William Cannon Drive
Austin, TX 78745
Thursday, May 23rd at 6:00pm
Lago Vista Public Library
5803 Thunderbird - Suite 40
Lago Vista, TX 78645
Tuesday, May 28th at 6:00pm
Howson Library
2500 Exposition Boulevard
Austin, TX 78703
April 04, 2013 - April 11th Voter Registration Deadline is Just Days Away!
Register to vote for the May 11, 2013 General Election by April 11th, 2013. If you have moved since the last time you voted, you must update your voter registration record. Travis County voters can review their current voter registration record online at www.traviscountytax.org, or they may contact the Voter Registrar's office by telephone at (512) 854-9473.
"We want to be sure new Travis County residents and voters who have moved are registered on time for the election," said Travis County Tax Collector and Voter Registrar, Bruce Elfant. "If you do not have a yellow voter registration certificate with your current address, please contact our office to check your voter registration status."
How can you register or make changes to your voter registration?
Come in person to one of the five tax office locations during business hours. Find maps and driving directions to all of our locations at www.traviscountytax.org.
Mail an application and make sure the US postmark shows April 11th or earlier. Find applications at area post offices, libraries or at www.traviscountytax.org.
Go to www.texas.gov to update your name or address if you have moved within Travis County.
For questions about your voter registration status, registering for the first time, updating an existing voter registration record, early voting locations or Election Day polling places, please visit www.traviscountytax.org or call (512) 854-9473.
March 25, 2013 - Tax Office Lowers Electronic Check Fees!
Electronic check fees for online property tax payments at www.traviscountytax.org have been reduced. Under the old fee structure, taxpayers paid from $3 - $40 depending on the dollar amount of the transaction. The new fee structure charges $2 for transactions $1,000 or less and $5 for transactions over $1,000.
"We have been working with our vendor, Government Payments, to reduce the cost for paying online with an electronic check," said Travis County Tax Collector and Voter Registrar, Bruce Elfant. "Taxpayers who are delinquent on their 2012 taxes will be able to take advantage of the reduced fees right away, and we are confident that more citizens will be able to use this convenient payment option when the 2013 bills are mailed this fall."
Many taxpayers are surprised to discover that there are fees for paying online. The Texas Property Tax Code prohibits the collection of any fee other than the actual property tax due. As a result, accepting online payments requires a third party vendor. Travis County does not keep any portion of the fees; they are collected by the vendor to cover the cost of processing transactions and providing online services.
For questions about property tax payment options, visit www.traviscountytax.org or call (512) 854-9473.
March 22, 2013 -Take Initiative! Become a Volunteer Voter Registrar!
Help citizens register to vote for the May 11, 2013 General Election by becoming a Volunteer Deputy Registrar. Volunteer Deputy Registrars promote voter registration most commonly at community events and within their own social networks. They distribute voter registration applications and confirm that all of the applications they provide are completed correctly. They also provide a receipt to show proof of registration and deliver applications to the Voter Registrar within 5 days of completion.
"Helping citizens register to vote is a rewarding activity that can help make a real impact on our community," said Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar, Bruce Elfant. "The deadline to register for the May election is April 11 and volunteers will play an important role leading up to the deadline."
How can you become a Volunteer Deputy Registrar (VDR)?
To volunteer, you must be age 18 or older and must attend a one-hour training session. During training, you will review the qualifications to become a VDR, learn how to register voters correctly and be officially sworn-in.
All training sessions are held the first Tuesday of the month. The next session will be held April 2nd. One-hour sessions that day will be held starting at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in the main Travis County Tax Office located at 5501 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78751.
For more information, please visit www.traviscountytax.org or call (512) 854-9473.
March 19, 2013 - Voter Registration Deadline for May Election is April 11th, 2013
Register to vote for the May 11, 2013 General Election by April 11th, 2013. If you have moved since the last time you voted, you must update your voter registration record. Travis County voters can review their current voter registration record online at www.traviscountytax.org, or they may contact the Voter Registrar's office by telephone at (512) 854-9473.
"We want to be sure new Travis County residents and voters who have moved are registered on time for the election," said Travis County Tax Collector and Voter Registrar, Bruce Elfant. "If you do not have a yellow voter registration certificate with your current address, please contact our office to check your voter registration status."
How can you register or make changes to your voter registration?
Come in person to one of the five tax office locations during business hours. Find maps and driving directions to all of our locations at www.traviscountytax.org.
Mail an application and make sure the US postmark shows April 11th or earlier. Find applications at area post offices, libraries or at www.traviscountytax.org.
For questions about your voter registration status, registering for the first time, updating an existing voter registration record, early voting locations or Election Day polling places, please visit www.traviscountytax.org or call (512) 854-9473.
February 25, 2013 - Late Vehicle Registration News
If your vehicle registration has expired, your best bet is to call or come in to a tax office to renew!
Has your vehicle registration expired? Don't worry, there are still plenty of easy ways to renew your registration and get back on the road.
Starting today, there is a new option to renew online at www.texas.gov if your registration is expired (by 6 months or less). Be aware, when renewing online, that you will be charged for a full 12 months of registration automatically, but your new sticker will still expire in the month it was scheduled to expire had you renewed on time. This is because the automated system defaults to the expiration month on file whether renewing on time or late.
If you have a valid reason for renewing late (IE: your vehicle hasn't been running, has been in storage or has not been on the road) please call or come in to renew with us and receive a new sticker good for 12 months. You'll find more information about renewing by phone or in person below.
All five of our locations can renew your registration in-person in just a few minutes, even if it's expired by a little or a lot. Most of our offices even offer renewal via the drive-through! Come see us with your proof of insurance and a valid photo ID to make your payment. You'll walk away with your new sticker and receipt on the spot.
If coming in to an office doesn't work for your schedule, you can also renew an expired registration over the phone. Just call (512) 854-9473 during regular business hours with a credit or debit card. One of our 14 communications specialists will get you renewed in minutes. While there is an additional convenience fee (usually no more than $3) to pay by phone, we'll be happy to e-mail or fax a copy of your new registration receipt to you. You'll then receive your new sticker by regular mail within 5-7 days.
For more information about the various ways you can renew your registration, visit our website at www.traviscountytax.org or call (512) 854-9473.
February 15, 2013 - Delinquent Tax Notices are in the Mail
Approximately 30,000 Travis County property owners with unpaid taxes received (or will soon receive) notice by mail to pay up or face additional penalties. As of February 1, 2013, all unpaid taxes follow a schedule of penalty and interest that increases each month starting at 7% of the base amount of taxes due. By the fifth month of delinquency, the penalty and interest reaches 18%. In a year's time, the total is 24%.
Delinquent taxpayers may arrange a payment plan online, by phone at (512) 854-9473 or in person at the main tax office location, 5501 Airport Boulevard from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays. For those who qualify, a payment arrangement does not eliminate penalties and interest, but it prevents legal action as long as the taxpayer adheres to the agreement. Owners of 2,814 properties have already signed payment agreements for 2012.
"Most taxpayers pay on time. But for those who don't, the Texas Property Tax Code is very clear about the actions that must be taken to collect delinquent taxes," says Bruce Elfant, Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector. "The law states that we must notify taxpayers of delinquent status and we must assess penalty and interest," he said.
Of the 388,065 accounts listed on the tax roll, 96.4% paid on time. Of the $2.5 billion levied by all taxing units, $2,387,212,000 has been collected. The base amount that remains unpaid is $91,947,451.
Call (512) 854-9473 between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. weekdays for assistance.
February 6, 2013 - Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrar Training Announced!
Get involved! Become a volunteer deputy voter registrar for Travis County!
Help register citizens to vote for the May 11, 2013 General Election now by becoming a Volunteer Deputy Registrar. Volunteer Deputy Registrars come from all walks of life. They regularly promote voter registration at festivals, job fairs, concerts, community events and within their own social networks. Volunteer Deputy Registrars distribute voter registration applications, make sure the applications are completed correctly, provide a receipt that serves as proof of registration and deliver applications to the Office of the Voter Registrar within 5 days of completion.
"Helping citizens register to vote is a rewarding activity that can help make a real impact on our community," said Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar, Bruce Elfant. "The deadline to register for the May election is April 11 and volunteers will play an important role leading up to the deadline."
How can you become a Volunteer Deputy Registrar (VDR)? Volunteers must be 18 years or older and attend a one-hour training session where they learn about the qualifications to become a VDR and how to register voters.
The next training sessions will be held on February 19, 20, 21 and 22 at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Travis County Tax Office located at 5501 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78751.
February 5, 2013 - Property Tax Payment Plan Information
Travis County taxpayers who missed the January 31 payment deadline may begin to receive letters from property tax lien transfer companies offering assistance. The loans offered by these companies often come with interest rates that are much higher than paying taxes directly to the tax office. Taxpayers who need to make payment arrangements may apply on on this page of our website. This service allows the applicant to view exactly how much monthly payments will be with penalty and interest.
"We want taxpayers to make an informed decision and not be intimidated by marketing scare tactics sometimes used by companies providing loans. Customers should read any information they receive carefully and be aware that some letters even look like they are coming from a government office," says Bruce Elfant, Tax Assessor-Collector.
By law, penalty and interest begins to accrue on all unpaid taxes starting February 1, 2013. In the first month of delinquency, penalty and interest total 7% and increase each month thereafter. In a year's time, the total reaches 24%.
There are several other ways to contact the tax office to request a payment plan:
Send a request by regular mail to: Travis County Tax Office / P O Box 149328 / Austin, TX 78714-9328 including your contact information for a return call, e-mail or letter back from our office.
Request a payment arrangement in person by visiting the main tax office location at 5501 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78751.
Request a payment arrangement by telephone at (512) 854-9473.
Office hours for telephone customers and visitors at the main office are 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
January 28, 2013 - Property Tax Payment Deadline is Just Days Away!
Thursday, January 31 is the payment deadline for 2012 property taxes. Payments mailed with a Thursday, January 31 (or earlier) U.S. Postal Service postmark are considered timely upon receipt.
Anyone who has not received a property tax bill may call (512) 854-9473 or download a bill at www.traviscountytax.org. If you have waited until this month, here are your payment options:
In person at 5501 Airport Blvd (main office) January 31, 5:30 p.m.
In person at any satellite tax office January 31, 5:00 p.m.
By phone at (512) 854-9473 January 31, 5:30 p.m.
Online at www.traviscountytax.org January 31, Midnight
By drop box at 5501 Airport Blvd. January 31, Midnight
By mail with a U.S. Postal Service postmark January 31
"To avoid standing in line on January 31, we encourage taxpayers to mail their payments instead," says Bruce Elfant, Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar. "Taxpayers who want to use their own bank's online services to pay must be aware that if the bank does not postmark the payment by January 31, penalties and interest will apply as required by law. You should always check your bank's terms of service before making a property tax payment."
The Travis County Tax Office will collect over $2.5 billion dollars levied to support 107 taxing jurisdictions including AISD, the City of Austin, Travis County, ACC and Central Health. Typically, 95% of tax payments are made by the deadline and most are made by check sent via the U.S. Postal Service.
Seniors and disabled taxpayers may take advantage of a special provision in the law that allows for quarterly payments. Along with a "letter of intent" (available online or by telephone) to document the plan, seniors and disabled taxpayers pay at least one-fourth of the tax bill by January 31, and the three remaining payments by March 31, May 31 and July 31. Veterans who are 100% disabled and their surviving spouses may be completely exempt from paying property taxes.
Payments can be made by cash (in person only), check, money order, cashier's check, electronic check and credit card. Electronic check and credit card payments online, by phone, and in person incur convenience fees. Fees are charged by the vendor who provides electronic check and credit card services. Only those who choose to use the service will pay these fees. The fee for an electronic check ranges from $3 to $40 and the credit card fee is 3% of any payment over $100 and $3 for any payment up to $100.
For those who cannot pay taxes, the credit card option may represent a desirable alternative because on February 1, 2013 all unpaid 2012 taxes incur 7% penalty and interest charges automatically as a matter of state law. The convenience fee charged by the vendor-provided credit card service is 3%. Paying with a credit card to avoid delinquency could save taxpayers a considerable amount of money.
"If you can't pay all of your taxes, you can make a payment arrangement online," says Elfant. "You can also write, call, or come in person to make these arrangements. The most important thing is to contact the tax office about delinquent taxes. While a payment arrangement does not remove penalties and interest, taxpayers will find it much cheaper to contact us than to wait for our office to contact them."
Visitors may choose among five locations to make a property tax payment in-person during regular business hours.
Central - 5501 Airport Blvd., 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (drive through service)
East - 4705 Heflin Lane, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (drive through service)
Can't pay your property taxes? Apply online for a monthly payment plan!
Travis County taxpayers who need to make arrangements to pay property taxes may apply online at http://www.traviscountytax.org/goOPA.do. This service not only provides taxpayers with an online application and immediate response, it also allows the applicant to view exactly how much monthly payments will be with penalty and interest.
With the 2012 property tax deadline (January 31, 2013) close at hand, taxpayers who need to explore payment options will find the service a useful tool in decision-making. By law, penalty and interest begins to accrue on all unpaid taxes starting February 1, 2013. In the first month of delinquency, penalty and interest total 7% and increase each month thereafter. In a year's time, the total reaches 24%.
The majority of tax payments are on time, and 95% of the total levy is collected by the deadline. Approximately 45,000 parcels go delinquent each year because taxes are not paid in full by the deadline. Of these, approximately 13,000 parcels are involved in a payment arrangement with the tax office.
"A payment arrangement does not eliminate the required penalty and interest, but it does protect the owner from further legal action. Taxpayers should contact our office or use our online service as soon as they know they can't pay in full so we can discuss payment options." says Bruce Elfant, Tax Assessor-Collector.
Taxpayers may submit a down payment when making a payment plan but it is not required. Down payments may be submitted online, by mail, or in person.
Taxpayers may qualify for online approval of a payment arrangement if they agree to:
pay in full within 12 months on real estate properties
pay in full within 6 months on business personal properties
remain in good standing on any other accounts showing current or delinquent taxes due
provide an e-mail address
The online service provides a convenient alternative to mail and personal visits to the tax office. More importantly, it allows the taxpayer to fully understand the impact of penalty and interest. If the taxpayer chooses to make a down payment, he or she can adjust monthly payments based on varying down payment amounts.
There are several other ways to contact the tax office to request a payment plan:
Send a request by regular mail to: Travis County Tax Office / P O Box 149328 / Austin, TX 78714-9328 including your contact information for a return call, e-mail or letter back from our office
Request a payment arrangement in person by visiting the main tax office location at 5501 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78751
Request a payment arrangement by telephone at (512) 854-9473.
Office hours for telephone customers and visitors at the main office are 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Have you paid your 2012 property taxes yet? Property tax payments are due January 31st!
Thursday, January 31 is the payment deadline for 2012 property taxes. Anyone who has not received a property tax bill may call (512) 854-9473 or download a bill at www.traviscountytax.org. Payments mailed with a Thursday, January 31 (or earlier) U.S. Postal Service postmark are considered timely upon receipt.
If you have waited until this month, here are your payment options:
In person at 5501 Airport Blvd (main office) January 31, 5:30 p.m.
In person at any satellite tax office January 31, 5:00 p.m.
By phone at (512) 854-9473 January 31, 5:30 p.m.
Online at www.traviscountytax.org January 31, Midnight
By drop box at 5501 Airport Blvd. January 31, Midnight
By mail with a U.S. Postal Service postmark January 31
"The postmark on your payment is critical," says Bruce Elfant, Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar. "Taxpayers who want to use their own bank's online services to pay must be aware that if the bank does not postmark the payment by January 31, penalties and interest will apply as required by law. You should always check your bank's terms of service before making a property tax payment."
The Travis County Tax Office will collect over $2.5 billion dollars levied to support 107 taxing jurisdictions including AISD, the City of Austin, Travis County, ACC and Central Health. Typically, 95% of tax payments are made by the deadline and most are made by check sent via the U.S. Postal Service.
Seniors and disabled taxpayers may take advantage of a special provision in the law that allows for quarterly payments. Along with a "letter of intent" (available online or by telephone) to document the plan, seniors and disabled taxpayers pay at least one-fourth of the tax bill by January 31, and the three remaining payments by March 31, May 31 and July 31. Veterans who are 100% disabled and their surviving spouses may be completely exempt from paying property taxes.
Payments can be made by cash (in person only), check, money order, cashier's check, electronic check and credit card. Electronic check and credit card payments online, by phone, and in person incur convenience fees. Fees are charged by the vendor who provides electronic check and credit card services. Only those who choose to use the service will pay these fees. The fee for an electronic check ranges from $3 to $40 and the credit card fee is 3% of any payment over $100 and $3 for any payment up to $100.
For those who cannot pay taxes, the credit card option may represent a desirable alternative because on February 1, 2013 all unpaid 2012 taxes incur 7% penalty and interest charges automatically as a matter of state law. The convenience fee charged by the vendor-provided credit card service is 3%. Paying with a credit card to avoid delinquency could save taxpayers a considerable amount of money.
"If you can't pay all of your taxes, you can make a payment arrangement online," says Elfant. "You can also write, call, or come in person to make these arrangements. The most important thing is to contact the tax office about delinquent taxes. While a payment arrangement does not remove penalties and interest, taxpayers will find it much cheaper to contact us than to wait for our office to contact them."
Visitors may choose among five locations to make a property tax payment in-person during regular business hours:
- Central - 5501 Airport Blvd., 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (drive through service)
- East - 4705 Heflin Lane, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (drive through service)
January 2, 2013 - New Tax Assessor-Collector & Voter Registrar, Mr. Bruce Elfant, Sworn Into Office Today!
Effective January 1, 2013, Travis County residents will write a new name on checks for vehicle and property tax transactions. Bruce Elfant was sworn in at a public ceremony today as Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar after being elected in November, 2012. He is preceded by Tina Morton.
"If you have already written your check out to Tina Morton, don't worry. Our bank is prepared to accept your checks during this transition." Elfant said. Customers often ask why they write the check to a specific person. "Part of my job is to obtain a bond that makes me responsible for taxpayer funds. That's why checks are made out to the name of the individual who holds the office." Elfant said.
Tens of thousands of taxpayers will write checks for 2012 property taxes over the next few weeks. The deadline to pay taxes and avoid penalty and interest is Thursday, January 31, 2013. Taxpayers who are unable to pay by the deadline should contact the tax office by phone at (512) 854-9473 or online to arrange a payment plan.
December 31, 2012 - NEW TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR & VOTER REGISTRAR NEWS
Swearing in Ceremony Wednesday, January 2, 2013 at 12:00 p.m.
Bruce Elfant will be sworn in as Travis County Tax-Assessor Collector and Voter Registrar on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013 at 12 p.m. The ceremony will be held at 5501 Airport Blvd. Guests should follow signs to the North entrance of the building on the second floor. The ceremony and reception are open to the public. Read the official press release here.
If you pay property taxes and expect to get a December receipt for federal income tax purposes, be advised of these payment deadlines:
PAYMENT METHOD DATE TIME
IN PERSON AT 5501 AIRPORT (MAIN LOCATION) 12/31 5:30 p.m.
IN PERSON AT ANY SATELLITE TAX OFFICE 12/31 5:00 p.m.
ONLINE AT WWW.TRAVISCOUNTYTAX.ORG 12/31 Midnight
IN DROP BOX AT 5501 AIRPORT BLVD. 12/31 Midnight
BY MAIL WITH A US POSTAL SERVICE POSTMARK 12/31 N/A
The last day to pay 2012 property taxes without penalty is January 31, 2013. The vast majority of taxpayers mail payments, but about 10% prefer to pay in person. If you plan to visit a tax office location please try to come early. While all tax office locations are prepared to serve customers it's still a good idea to come as early as possible.
"There is still time to head to the post office and avoid long lines," said Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector Tina Morton. "About 90% of all taxpayers use mail and, as long as the postmark shows 12/31/12 or earlier, the owner will receive a December receipt." The mailing address is:
Travis County Tax Office / P. O. Box 149328 / Austin, TX 78714-9328.
Morton said anyone who needs a tax bill can download a copy at www.traviscountytax.org or call (512) 854-9473. Even without a tax bill, a check mailed with the property identification on it will be accepted and posted for December payment.
In addition to the main office on Airport Boulevard, taxpayers may pay in person at any tax office satellite location weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.:
East Austin – 4705 Heflin Lane at Springdale and MLK Blvd (drive through service)
Oak Hill Office – 8656 Highway 71W Building B, second floor
Pflugerville Office – 15822 Foothill Farms Loop (drive through service)
Southeast Office – 4011 McKinney Falls Parkway (drive through service)
Visit www.traviscountytax.org to pay online with a credit card. A 3% convenience fee is charged by the vendor that provides this service. Fees for payment with an electronic check (also vendor provided service) range from $3 -- $40.
This week the office of the Travis County Voter Registrar will remove 41,505 voter's names from the roll of Travis County registered voters in accordance with Texas law. This purge takes place every two years and its purpose is to maintain accurate voter records.
The names purged today reflect those voters who did not respond to mailed inquiries and whose mailed voter certificates and other correspondence have been returned as undeliverable by the postal service.
If a voter was purged, it does not mean they cannot vote. A voter registration application completed and submitted by the next deadline ensures voting eligibility.
The next regularly scheduled election conducted by Travis County will be on Saturday, May 11, 2013. The deadline to register for that election is Thursday, April 11, 2013. Voters can download a voter registration application and check their voting status online at www.traviscountytax.org.
For assistance, contact the Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar's office at (512) 854-9473. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Voter Purge History - number of voters purged by year:
Swearing-In Ceremony Announced
Bruce Elfant will be sworn in as Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013 at 12 p.m. The ceremony will be held at 5501 Airport Blvd. Guests should follow signs to the North entrance of the building on the second floor. The ceremony and reception are open to the public.
November 30, 2012 - Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrar News
AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR CHERYL REESE TO ALL CURRENT VOLUNTEER DEPUTY REGISTRARS IN TRAVIS COUNTY:
"It has been a very productive 2 year term. Your hard work and dedication has Travis County at 81.48% of its eligible registered voters. In your honor, Wednesday, December 5th, 2012, from 2-4 p.m. there will be a Shining Star Celebration at 4717 Heflin Ln. Austin TX, 78721. In the new community room behind the JP1 Building. Please come enjoy lots of food and surprises.
I look forward to seeing you all there!"
New for this election! Registered Travis County voters can report to ANY polling location in Travis County ON ELECTION DAY to vote. You can find a full list of all of the polling locations in Travis County here. Polls are open from 7a.m. - 7p.m.. Find the location most convenient to where you'll be on Tuesday, and GO VOTE!
October 6 - October 9, 2012 - UPCOMING VOTER REGISTRATION DRIVES
THE VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR THE NOVEMBER 6, 2012 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION IS NEXT TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9TH!
Voter registration drives are happening county wide at a huge variety of locations all weekend (Oct. 6 and Oct. 7) and at every Travis County Thundercloud Subs location next Tuesday (October 9th) ALL DAY from 10a.m. - midnight.
If you need to get registered or make changes to your existing Travis County voter registration record, you can complete and submit your application form at any of the following locations at these designated times:
October 2, 2012 - VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS SEVEN DAYS AWAY! REGISTER YOU+2 TODAY!
Citizens have seven more days to register to vote for the November 6 Presidential Election! With the Tuesday, October 9, 2012 deadline looming, Travis County voters are encouraged to review their current voter registration record on our voter verification page or contact the Voter Registrar's office at (512) 854-9473 to make sure they are registered to vote at the correct address.
September 26, 2012 - VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR NOVEMBER ELECTION IS 10/09/2012!
Register to vote for the November 6 Presidential Election by Tuesday, October 9, 2012. If you have moved since the last time you voted, you must update your voter registration. Travis County voters can review their current voter registration record online, or they may contact the Voter Registrar's office by telephone at (512) 854-9473.
"Whether you have just moved to Travis County, or you are 18 years old and eligible to vote for the first time, the first step of the process is to register," said Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar, Tina Morton. "In addition to registering yourself, our U+2 campaign is all about helping your friends and family members register to vote at the same time."
Have you recently received a letter from our office regarding the status of your voter registration? If you have, please read the following important information for answers about how to proceed.
In an effort to maintain the accuracy of the voter registration roll, as is the Voter Registrar's responsibility, our office has recently mailed out approximately 2,200 Letters of Examination to currently registered Travis County voters who had some matching information to a master list of deceased persons issued by the Social Security Administration. This letter is not a notification that a voter's registration is invalid. It is a request for contact from the voter to verify that they are, in fact, still eligible to vote.
We are asking that anyone who receives one of these letters call our office at (512) 854-9473 between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday so that we may create an official verbal response memorandum to retain on file as proof that the voter in question is still a qualified Travis County voter.
August 31, 2012 - DAILY VOTER REGISTRATION TRAINING ANNOUNCED!
Starting September 5, 2012, the Travis County Voter Registrar will offer Volunteer Deputy Registrar training sessions at 10:30 a.m. Monday - Friday. Travis County enjoys the highest voter registration rate among urban counties in Texas thanks in large part to its Volunteer Deputy Registrars. They distribute voter registration applications and take responsibility for making sure the applications are completed correctly. Volunteer Deputy Registrars also provide a receipt that serves as proof of registration and they personally deliver applications to the Voter Registrar within 5 days of completion. Read the complete Voter Registration Training press release for complete details.
August 29, 2012 - BACK TO SCHOOL VOTER REGISTRATION INFORMATION
As students begin the fall semester at local universities, they have a choice to make about where to register to vote. Students who would like to cast a ballot in Travis County on Election Day must register at their new address by submitting a voter registration application to the Travis County Registrar. The deadline for the November 6 Presidential Election is Tuesday, October 9, 2012. If a student prefers to be registered using a parent's permanent address in another county or state, they must contact that county's current election administrator about registration requirements and the absentee ballot process there, well in advance of the upcoming election. You can read our entire "Back to School" voter registration press release here.
August 27, 2012 - VOLUNTEER DEPUTY VOTER REGISTRAR NEWS
September's regular Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrar training will be conducted on Tuesday, September 4th. Training takes about an hour. Pick from three sessions: 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. Upcoming voter registration community events in September have also been announced! Find out all the details for VDR training and upcoming voter registration events here.
Friday, August 10, 2012 at 10 a.m. Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar Tina Morton will launch a new campaign to register voters for the November 6, 2012 Presidential Election. Morton will be speaking at the ‘Go Vote’ Kickoff being held in the parking lot of the Travis County Tax Office at 5501 Airport Blvd. With just over 600,000 registered voters, Travis County has the highest percentage (77%) among major metropolitan cities in Texas. The deadline to register to vote is October 9, 2012.
“Our goal is to reach 650,000 registered voters by the end of September. We are challenging Travis County citizens to register themselves and help two other people register to vote at the same time. By acting now rather than waiting until the deadline, voters will have their certificate well in advance of Election Day,” said Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar, Tina Morton. “Participating in U +2 is as easy as including a link to a voter registration application in a text, tweet, Facebook post or e-mail” Read the entire Tax Office press release about U+2.
"The Texas Classic" license plates are now being issued at Travis County Tax Office!
The Texas Classic includes:
Two new, high-visibility security threads join the existing security features embedded in the plate sheeting. Texas is the first state in the country to provide dual security threads, making it easier for law enforcement to spot legitimate plates.
Bigger plate numbers. The plate letters and numbers are a full inch wide and just over 2.5 inches tall.
A new license plate pattern. The plates are issued with three letters followed by four numbers. By keeping the letters and numbers separate in the alpha-numeric pattern, the seven-character license plate number is easier to remember. This is convenient for plate owners, and also provides better recall for law enforcement and citizen witnesses.
August 7, 2012 - GO VOTE ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN KICKS OFF FRIDAY, AUGUST 10
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, in conjunction with the Austin Delta Foundation will kick off its ‘Go Vote’ transit advertising campaign that will benefit Capital Metro’s service area by educating the community on the importance of voting, knowing the issues and being prepared with the proper ID. Buses will be “wrapped” with messages and reminders of the importance of voting and being properly prepared to exercise the right to vote. The bus unveiling will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 10, 2012 at the Travis County Tax Assessor's Office located at 5501 Airport Blvd. The celebration is open to the community, and the hope is that attendees and the community will get energized about voting.
The Travis County Tax Assessor’s office will be conducting on-site voter registration and deputizing volunteer registrars during the event. Tina Morton, Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar said, “Our goal is to register 650,000 voters for the November election. We are pleased to host the ‘Go Vote’ event at our office and look forward to answering questions and helping Travis County residents register to vote.”
July 24, 2012 - VOLUNTEER DEPUTY VOTER REGISTRAR TRAINING NEWS
August VDR Training will be conducted on Tuesday, August 7th. Training takes about an hour. Pick from three sessions: 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. Find out all the details about training.
Travis County Voter Registration Director, Dolores (Dee) Lopez, was recently awarded two education certification awards at an international event held in New Mexico. Read all about it in our press release.
In a Tuesday, July 10, 2012 public hearing, Travis County Commissioners will consider making changes that will impact the tax bills of 43,000 Travis County taxpayers. The proposed changes include capping the historical exemption and passing on the savings to taxpayers who have over-65 or disabled homestead exemptions.
"We want the taxpayers of Travis County to understand that changes to exemption amounts will directly impact the tax bills mailed by our office this October," says Tina Morton, Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar. "Taxpayers can get involved now by attending the public hearing and expressing their views about the proposed changes," she said.
The public hearing will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 10 at 314 W. 11th St., Austin, TX.
Citizens can review the June 26, 2012 Commissioners Court discussion regarding changes to exemptions, along with supporting documents, here.
Become a Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrar for Travis County! July training and voter registration community event dates announced! Read the complete press release here!
THE RACE IS ON! The Travis County Voter Registrar announces its goal to register 56,000 new Travis County voters by October 9th, the deadline date for registration in time for the November Presidential Election! You can help! Read all about it in our press release here!
Become a Volunteer Deputy Voter Registrar for Travis County! June training and voter registration drive dates announced! Read the complete press release here!
The voter registration deadline for the May 29th General Primary Election is APRIL 30, 2012. Read more about how to verify your current registration status, how to register for the first time and how to make changes to your address in time for the upcoming election by reading the full press release here.
New laws have gone into effect regarding the deadline for all vehicle title transfers to be completed. Read the complete press release by clicking here.
PROPERTY TAX PAYMENTS ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE JAN. 31ST.
There are lots of ways to pay! Click here to read the full Tax Office press release and learn more about which payment option and method is right for you!
January 9, 2012 - PROPERTY TAX NEWS - NEW TAX FACTS!
This new episode of Tax Facts outlines 2011 Travis County property tax payment options and deadlines to avoid penalty and interest. It also explains additional payment programs for over 65 and disabled homeowners that provide additional savings and convenience.
December 2011 Tax Facts - How to Save on Property Taxes!
December 2, 2011 - MOTOR VEHICLE NEWS
TxDMV has created this very helpful guide outlining a lot of the commonly misunderstood aspects of disabled plate and placard ownership and use. This guide can be printed up and carried in your glove box or purse for your convenience. Disabled person license plates and placards can be issued by any of the five Travis County Tax Office locations.
November 18, 2011
- PROPERTY TAX NEWS
Check out the 2011 Taxpayer News leaflet that is included in all 2011 Property Tax Bills currently being mailed out to property owners. It's full of lots of helpful information to help clarify your bill and answer lots of commonly asked questions.
November 3, 2011 - GENERAL NEWS
On November 8, 2011 Nelda Wells Spears will be honored by the Commissioner's Court for her decades of service to Travis County. Ms. Spears announced her retirement from office earlier this year effective on December 31, 2011. Click here to read the complete press release.
Homestead
Exemption Applications filed with the Travis Central Appraisal District
on or after this date require supporting documentation to prove occupancy/residency.
The following documents are now required by state law:
1) a copy of
the applicant's driver's license OR state issued personal identification
card/certificate AND
2) a copy of the applicant's vehicle registration
receipt OR, if the applicant does not own a vehicle, an affidavit
to that effect signed by the applicant
3) AND a copy of a utility bill
in the applicant's name for the property for which the exemption is
sought.
If you have questions about these new requirements, please contact
the Travis Central Appraisal District directly at (512) 834-9138. The
Travis County Tax Office can provide a duplicate registration receipt
to any owner of a vehicle who needs one for $2.00. This receipt can
be purchased in person, by mail or over the phone. Credit card transactions
are subject to a $3.00 vendor fee.
September 1, 2011 - VEHICLE REGISTRATION & TITLING NEWS
A number
of legislative changes have impacted requirements and fees for vehicle
registration and title transfers. Please visit our Main
VEHICLES Page for details. You can also find out more about the
changes to vehicle registration fees here.
September 2011 - VOTER REGISTRATION NEWS
Click here for important information from the Texas Secretary of State about elections procedures and information regarding voter registration in response to recent wildfires that have effected many Texas residents recently.
July 29, 2011 - GENERAL NEWS
Travis County
Tax Assessor-Collector, Nelda Wells Spears announces her retirement
from office. Click
here to read the official press release. Ms. Spears has served as
Travis County's Tax Assessor-Collector for more than 20 years.
July 2011 - VEHICLE REGISTRATION & TITLING NEWS
Tax Facts -
TxDMV Free E-Reminder and Title Check Services
July 2011 - VEHICLE REGISTRATION & TITLING NEWS
Legislative
changes impacting vehicle registration renewal fees state wide go into
effect soon! Find out more by clicking
the attachment on this page.
May 3, 2011 - VOTER REGISTRATION NEWS
Today's Volunteer
Deputy Registrar training will be held at the Tax Office (instead of
across the hall in the Elections Training Room) at the regular times
of 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.. Just come on by, let our information
booth attendant know that you're here for VDR training, and we'll be
happy to get you where you need to go. Come on by! We can't wait to
see you!
April 5, 2011 - PROPERTY TAX NEWS
Public input
for the proposal to change the Historical Exemption Policy is welcome
at the Commissioner's Court Work Session on April 14, 2011 at 1:30p.m.
in the Travis County Commissioner's Courtroom. View the Tax Policy document
here.
Volunteer
Deputy Voter Registrar group training is held on the 1st Tuesday of
each month at 5501 Airport Blvd. / Austin, TX 78751 in the Elections
Training Room at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Voter Registrar expands
to 100+ substations.
These are businesses, government offices and hospitals that display
voter registration applications.
New for 2010 - VEHICLE REGISTRATION & TITLING NEWS
GETTING TICKETS FROM TEXAS TOLLTAG FOR A VEHICLE YOU
NO LONGER OWN?Report vehicle sales when you cannot
transfer the title in person with seller. Use this
form and send to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
