If you find yourself in a position where you currently owe or will owe delinquent taxes, be aware that penalties and interest increase monthly, up to 24% annually, and may exceed your base tax due. To know exactly what amount is charged for each month of delinquency, view this chart of annual penalty and interest charges.

If the debt is not paid, further legal action may be taken on the account. If a lawsuit is filed, additional costs include a minimum of $335, plus attorney's fees of 15% of the total amount due.

IF YOU CURRENTLY OWE OR WILL OWE DELINQUENT TAXES there are a few ways to contact the tax office to arrange a payment plan:

• NEW! ONLINE PAYMENT ARRANGEMENT SERVICE! Review details here. Watch a short October 2011 Tax Facts video about signing up for a payement agreement below:

• Call the tax office today at (512) 854-9473
• Write a letter explaining the situation. Make sure the letter contains the information as described below. Please do NOT send the payment coupon, instead use the green envelope provided with your bill and put "PPA" in the lower left hand corner of the envelope.
• IN YOUR LETTER: Include the property identification (billing number or property address), property owner's name, name of the person who will be making payments, a proposed payment schedule and a daytime (between 8:00 and 5:00) telephone number . The address to send the letter to is:

Travis County Tax Office

Attention: Compliance

P O Box 149328

Austin, TX 78714-9328

Please PAY AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE BEFORE THE DEADLINE. Calling or writing today means you may save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in penalties, interest, and fees. The longer you wait, the more it will cost.

Payments on delinquent taxes may be made in monthly installments. However, you must have a prior written agreement with the Tax Office to do so. As required by law (Sec 33.01), interest accrues on the unpaid balance during the period of the agreement. If you know that you will not be able to pay all of your property taxes, it is advisable to pay all that you can before January 31st and contact the office to make payment arrangements.

EXPECT TO BE CONTACTED BY A COMPLIANCE OFFICER. All unpaid accounts will be sent a delinquent tax statement by mid February. The delinquent tax bill will show the unpaid balance with penalty and interest (7%).

View the delinquent tax video Download a free video player.