Ohio Property Tax Payment important date

In Ohio, property taxes are due in two installments each year: the first half is due on June 20, and the second half is due on December 20. If either date falls on a weekend or holiday, the important date moves to the next business day. Both payments cover the same tax year — you are not paying for different periods with each installment.

The county auditor's office in your county collects the payments and sends bills to property owners. You will receive a tax bill in the mail before each important date. If you do not receive a bill, contact your county auditor directly — missing a bill does not erase the debt, and unpaid taxes accrue interest and penalties starting the day after the important date passes.

The amount you owe depends on your property's assessed value and your county's tax rate. Both of these can change year to year, so your June payment may differ from your December payment, and both may differ from the previous year.

Key Takeaways

  • Property taxes in Ohio are due June 20 and December 20 each year, with the important date moving to the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday.
  • Your county auditor sends bills before each important date, and you can pay by mail, in person, or online depending on your county's options.
  • Unpaid taxes begin collecting interest and penalties the day after the important date, and the debt does not disappear if you ignore it.
  • If you own property with a mortgage, your lender may pay taxes from an escrow account, in which case you do not pay directly.
  • Homeowners over 65 and disabled homeowners may reduce their tax burden through Ohio's homestead exemption, which requires a separate filing.

How to Pay Your Property Taxes

The method you use to pay depends on your county. Most Ohio counties accept payment by mail, and many now accept online payment through their auditor's website or a third-party payment processor. Some counties allow in-person payment at the auditor's office during business hours. Check your county auditor's website or call their office to confirm which methods are available in your area.

When you pay by mail, send your check or money order to the address listed on your tax bill. Include your property identification number or parcel number on the check so the payment is credited to the correct account. Mail your payment early enough that it arrives before the important date — the postmark date does not count as the payment date; the auditor's office must receive it by the important date.

If you pay online, the auditor's website will show you the exact amount due and may charge a small processing fee. Online payments typically process within one to three business days, so pay at least a few days before the important date to may support the payment reaches the auditor in time.

What Happens If You Pay Late

If your payment does not arrive by the important date, interest begins accruing when ready. In Ohio, unpaid property taxes carry an interest rate of 1 percent per month (12 percent per year), compounded monthly. This means the longer you wait, the more you owe beyond the original tax bill.

After taxes remain unpaid for a certain period, the county may file a lien against your property. A lien gives the county a legal claim on your home and can affect your ability to sell or refinance. If taxes go unpaid for several years, the county may foreclose on the property and sell it at a tax sale to recover the debt.

If you cannot pay the full amount by the important date, contact your county auditor when ready. Some counties offer payment plans or short-term extensions for taxpayers facing hardship. The sooner you reach out, the more options may be available to you.

Escrow Accounts and Mortgage Lenders

If you have a mortgage, your lender may require you to pay property taxes into an escrow account as part of your monthly mortgage payment. In this case, the lender pays your taxes directly to the county on your behalf, and you do not send payments yourself. Your mortgage statement will show the escrow payment as a separate line item.

Even if your lender handles the payments, you should still receive a tax bill from the county auditor. Review it to confirm the amount is correct and that your lender has the right address and account information. If there is a discrepancy, contact your lender and the auditor's office to resolve it.

If you pay off your mortgage, you become responsible for paying property taxes directly. The lender will notify the county, and future bills will be sent to you instead of the lender. Make sure you understand this change so you do not miss a important date.

The Homestead Exemption for Older and Disabled Homeowners

Ohio offers a homestead exemption that reduces property taxes for homeowners age 65 or older and for disabled homeowners of any age. The exemption reduces the assessed value of your home, which lowers your tax bill. The amount of the reduction varies by county and by income level.

To claim the exemption, you must file an process with your county auditor. The important date to file is typically December 31 of the year you want the exemption to take effect, though some counties allow filing into the following year. You will need to provide proof of age or disability and proof of income. Once approved, the exemption continues each year unless your circumstances change.

If you think you may be may be able to access, contact your county auditor's office for an process and instructions. The exemption can significantly reduce your tax burden, and it is worth investigating if you meet the age or disability requirements.

Finding Your County Auditor and Tax Information

Each of Ohio's 88 counties has its own auditor's office, and each office handles property tax collection for that county. To find your auditor, search online for "[your county name] auditor" or visit the Ohio Auditor of State website, which links to every county auditor's office.

Your county auditor's website typically includes information about payment methods, important date, and how to look up your property tax account. Many offices allow you to view your bill online, set up payment reminders, or check the status of a payment you have already made. If you cannot find the information you need online, call the auditor's office directly — staff can answer questions about your specific property and payment options.

Keep the auditor's phone number and website address handy. If you move, change your mailing address with the auditor so you continue to receive bills on time. If you sell your property, notify the auditor so they stop sending bills to you and start sending them to the new owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I miss the June 20 important date but pay before December 20?

You will owe interest on the late first-half payment, but you can still pay the second half on time. Contact your auditor to find out the exact amount owed, including interest. Paying the second half on time prevents additional penalties from accumulating.

Can I pay my property taxes online in Ohio?

Many counties offer online payment through their auditor's website or a third-party processor, but not all do. Check your county auditor's website or call their office to see what payment methods are available in your area. Some counties charge a small fee for online payments.

Do I have to pay property taxes if I rent instead of own?

No. Renters do not pay property taxes directly. The property owner pays taxes, and the cost is typically factored into the rent. As a renter, you have no property tax obligation.

What is the difference between the first half and second half of property taxes?

Both halves cover the same tax year — they are straightforward two equal payments spread across the year rather than one lump sum. The first half is due June 20, and the second half is due December 20. Each payment is calculated based on the same assessed value and tax rate.

Can I deduct Ohio property taxes on my federal income tax return?

You may be able to deduct state and local property taxes on your federal return, but there is a limit of $10,000 per year for all state and local taxes combined. Consult a tax professional or the IRS website for details about your specific situation.