Pinellas County property tax bills go out at the end of October, and the date you pay changes what you owe. Pay early and the county takes a little off. Pay late and interest is added. If you own a condo or home on the beach, especially from out of state, here is how the calendar works.
Key takeaways
- Bills are mailed on the last business day of October, and payments open on November 1.
- Paying in November earns a 4% discount, then 3% in December, 2% in January and 1% in February.
- March is full price. Unpaid taxes become delinquent on April 1, when interest and costs are added.
- An installment plan spreads the bill over four payments, but you have to apply by April 30 for the following tax year.
The discount calendar
| Pay in | Discount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| November | 4% | The biggest saving of the year |
| December | 3% | |
| January | 2% | |
| February | 1% | |
| March | None | Full amount, due by March 31 |
| April 1 onward | Delinquent | Interest and other costs are added |
The Pinellas County Tax Collector notes that if a discount period ends on a weekend or holiday, online and in-person payments can still get that month’s discount on the next business day, while mailed payments need a postmark from the discount month.
Ways to pay
- Online through the Tax Collector’s website. eCheck payments have no extra fee, while card payments carry a vendor fee.
- In person at any Pinellas Tax Collector office, no appointment needed.
- By mail, as long as the postmark falls in the month whose discount you are claiming.
- Through your mortgage escrow, if you have one. Your lender usually pays in November, but check your escrow statement.
The installment plan
If one large payment doesn’t suit you, the Tax Collector offers a quarterly installment plan for bills over $100. Payments fall due in June, September, December and March, with discounts built into the earlier payments. Applications open on November 1 and close on April 30 for the next tax year, and once you’re enrolled you stay in as long as you make the first payment each year.
Tips for owners who live elsewhere
- Sign up for eBills so the bill reaches your inbox even if your mail is forwarded.
- Check the mailing address on your parcel with the Property Appraiser, because the bill goes to the address on record.
- If you bought this year, the bill may still be in the previous owner’s name. You still owe it, so look up the parcel and pay.
- Put a reminder in your calendar for late November, the last easy chance at the 4% discount.
Our tip: Bought a home you live in full time? Apply for the homestead exemption by March 1 so next year’s bill reflects it. Our homestead exemption guide explains how.
What this means for you
For most owners, paying in November is the simplest way to save. If you rent out a condo, add the tax bill to your yearly budget alongside insurance and association dues. Our guide to the costs of owning a vacation rental covers the rest, and our closing cost calculator shows how taxes are prorated when you buy or sell.
Please note: Laws, tax rules and insurance terms change, so check the details for your situation with a licensed professional, such as a Florida real estate attorney, insurance agent or tax adviser, before you act.
Have a question about a Pinellas property? Contact us and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Sources
- Pinellas County Tax Collector, property taxes in Pinellas County, discount periods, deadlines and installment plan.
- Pinellas County Tax Collector, property tax FAQ, mailing date and delinquency.
- Pinellas County Property Appraiser, parcel and mailing address records.