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. If the debt is not paid then you will have to pay for a lawsuit; this would cost a minimum of $335 plus attorney's fees of 15% of the total amount due.

IF YOU CURRENTLY OWE OR WILL OWE delinquent taxes, call the tax office today (512-854-9473) or write a letter explaining the situation. Make sure the letter contains the information 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.

EXPECT TO BE CONTACTED by February 17 by a compliance officer. All unpaid accounts will be sent a delinquent tax statement by February 15. The delinquent tax bill will show the unpaid balance with penalty and interest (7%).

IN YOUR LETTER: Include the property identification (billing number or 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, 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.

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