Texas property tax bills for 2026 start going out in October, and they're payable immediately. The deadline is January 31 — but January 31, 2027 is a Sunday, and Texas Tax Code Section 1.06 says that when a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, an on-time payment can be made on the next business day. That makes the effective deadline Monday, February 1, 2027. Taxes not paid by then become delinquent the following day.
The Early-Payment Discount Some Texans Can Claim
Texas Tax Code Section 31.05 lets taxing units offer a discount for paying early:
- ›3% if paid in October (or earlier)
- ›2% if paid in November
- ›1% if paid in December
The catch is that this is optional. Each taxing unit — county, city, school district, special district — decides whether to adopt it, and the discount applies only to that unit's portion of your bill. Many don't offer it. Your tax statement will say whether a discount applies; if you don't see one listed, there isn't one.
If your bill does include a discount and you're paying out of pocket, paying by October 31 on a $6,000 bill could save up to $180.
What Happens After the Deadline
Texas penalties stack up fast. On the first day of delinquency, a 6% penalty plus 1% interest is added. The penalty rises by 1% each month after that, reaching 12% by July 1, and interest keeps accruing at 1% per month on top. Also on July 1, delinquent accounts can be turned over to collection attorneys, who can add a fee of up to 20%. A bill left unpaid until summer can easily cost a third more than it would have in January.
Seniors and Disabled Homeowners Can Pay in Installments
If you're 65 or older, disabled, or a disabled veteran, and the home has your homestead exemption, Texas lets you split the bill into four equal payments without penalty — due January 31, March 31, May 31, and July 31. To use this option, you have to make the first payment before the delinquency date and tell the tax office you're choosing the installment plan.
Escrowed? Still Check
If your mortgage includes escrow, your lender pays the bill — usually in December or January. Before it does, check that your statement shows every exemption you qualify for — especially the homestead exemption, which you have to apply for.
Find your county tax office on our Texas property tax page, including Harris County.