What is a Property Tax Deferral?
If a homeowner is a senior citizen who is 65 years of age or older, a disabled veteran, or has a disability, that person will have eligibility according to the Texas Property Tax Code, Section 33.06, which allows for real estate tax payments to be discontinued by offering tax deferral programs. A property tax deferral stops collection efforts on the residence homestead’s property taxes until the property no longer qualifies as the residence homestead.
Still, a tax lien remains on the homestead property. A deferral does not stop interest from growing on unpaid taxes. Interest continues to accrue against the property with each year’s tax assessment at a rate of 8% per year. Deferred property taxes that remain unpaid will appear as delinquent taxes to the public.
In a recent analysis by Zillow and Thumbtack, property taxes, utilities, and homeowners insurance added up to $6,327 a year for the median-priced U.S. home, with property taxes likely making up the biggest share of that cost.
When a deferral ends, what happens to the taxes?
A deferral will be terminated when the person who qualified for the deferral no longer occupies the property due to the house being sold or inherited. The deferred taxes and accrued interest must be paid in full on or before the 181st day after the date the qualified person no longer owns or occupies the property.
With effect from the 181st day, the entire amount becomes due, therefore taxing units can proceed with collection actions, including foreclosure. Should there be an outstanding mortgage, check with your mortgage company that the deferral doesn’t violate the terms of the deed of trust. If the home has a mortgage and the taxes aren’t paid on time, the deed of trust may allow the mortgage company to enforce its default remedies which may include foreclosure.
As a leading property tax lender in Texas, AFIC is here to assist with tax deferrals for senior homeowners over 65, disabled tax deferrals as well as the tax deferral affidavit for Appreciating Residence Homestead Value.
What happens if I can’t pay my deferred loan back in full?
Deferred property taxes are due to be paid within 180 days after a house is sold or changes ownership. At AFIC - American Finance & Investment Co., Inc, we are here to assist you in understanding your repayment options. In certain circumstances, the sale price of the home can cover the deferred taxes. Should you inherit a home with deferred taxes, or you want to avoid deferment altogether, our friendly team is available to assist you.
As one of the leading property tax lenders in Texas, we are here to make this a manageable process for you. If you’re left with a deferred property tax bill but not sure how you will be able to make the payments, AFIC can help.
If you are delinquent on the property taxes of your Texas residence, feeling overwhelmed, and not sure how to move forward, contact AFIC - American Finance & Investment Co., Inc. today.
