Behind on Property Taxes in Florida? Here’s What Happens After May 31st

If you own a home in Florida and don’t pay your property taxes by May 31st, you could be facing a tax lien against your property. This tax lien will accrue fees and interest. And if it isn’t paid within a certain time period you could be at risk to losing your house. At Particular Properties, we specialize in helping homeowners who are struggling with tax liens, foreclosure, and other challenging property situations. In this blog, we’ll break down what happens when your property taxes go unpaid after May 31st, and what you can do if you’re facing this issue.

Florida Property Tax Deadline: May 31st

In Florida, property taxes are due by March 31st each year. However, May 31st is the last day to pay before the tax lien process begins. After that date, unpaid property taxes are considered delinquent, and the county can start the tax certificate sale process.

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What Is a Florida Tax Lien Certificate?

When property taxes remain unpaid after May 31st, the county issues a tax lien on your property. This lien is then sold at a public auction in the form of a tax certificate. Investors purchase these certificates, essentially paying your overdue taxes in exchange for interest from you. This process allows counties to recover lost tax revenue without waiting for homeowners to pay.

Key Points:

• A tax lien attaches to your property. When you go to sell your property, this lien will get paid out.
• The lien is sold via a tax certificate auction.
• Investors can earn up to 18% interest annually on tax certificates!
• You’ll need to repay the taxes, plus interest, and fees to remove the lien.

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How Long Before You Lose Your Home?

Once a tax certificate is issued, the certificate holder must wait two years from the date of the delinquency to file for a tax deed application. If they do, your property could be sold at a tax deed auction, and you could lose ownership entirely.

• May 31st: Final day to pay property taxes before lien is issued.
• June 1: Tax certificates are sold at auction.
• 2 Years Later: Investor may apply for a tax deed sale.
• Tax Deed Sale: Your home can be sold to the highest bidder.

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How Does a Florida Property Tax Lien Affect You

If you’re behind on property taxes, here’s how a tax lien can impact your situation:

• Damaged Credit: Tax liens can appear on public records and affect your creditworthiness.
• Fees and Interest: You’ll be responsible for repaying not only the taxes but also interest, and other fees.
• Loss of Home: If the lien is not redeemed in time, your property could be auctioned off.

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What to Do If You’re Behind on Your Florida Property Taxes

If you’re facing a property tax lien in Florida, don’t panic. You have options, especially if you act quickly.

• Contact the county’s tax office the home is located in.
• For example Orange County: https://www.octaxcol.com/
• Remember delinquent property taxes cannot be paid online. They must be paid in person or by mail
• If you need help finding your county tax office fill contact us today and we’ll guide you to the right place

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How To Pay Your Delinquent Property Taxes

Payment Methods for Delinquent Property Taxes (Orange County, FL):

• In Person:
  • Cash
  • Certified or Cashier’s Check (payable to Orange County Tax Collector or Scott Randolph)
  • Money Order (payable to Orange County Tax Collector or Scott Randolph)
• By Mail:
  • Certified or Cashier’s Check (payable to Orange County Tax Collector or Scott Randolph)
  • Money Order (payable to Orange County Tax Collector or Scott Randolph) 

Important Note: Personal or business checks are not accepted for payment of delinquent property taxes in Orange County, Florida. 

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Sell Your House Fast—Even with a Tax Lien

At Particular Properties, we buy houses as-is for cash, even if you have a tax lien or other title issues. Our experienced team can:

• Stop the tax deed process by closing quickly
• Work with title companies to clear liens
• Pay closing costs
• Provide a fair, no-obligation cash offer

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Don’t Lose Your Property—Take Action Today

If you’re behind on property taxes in Florida and are worried about losing your home, contact us today. With almost 20 years in real estate Particular Properties, specializes in helping homeowners navigate tough situations and avoid losing their property to tax auctions.