Where and how to pay Virginia property taxes

Virginia property taxes are collected by your local treasurer's office, not by the state. You pay the county or city where your property sits. Most treasurers accept payments online through their websites, by mail, in person at their office, or by phone. Some accept automatic bank transfers or credit card payments, though credit cards often carry a processing fee.

The easiest way to find your local treasurer is to search "[your county or city name] Virginia treasurer" — each locality runs its own office and payment system. Your property tax bill will also list the treasurer's contact information and payment methods they accept.

Payment deadlines vary by locality. Most Virginia counties and cities bill twice a year, with payments due in June and December, though some use different schedules. Your bill will show the exact due date. Payments are typically due by 5 p.m. on the due date, and late payments may trigger penalties and interest.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia property taxes go to your county or city treasurer, not to the state, and each locality has its own payment system and deadline.
  • Most treasurers offer online payment through their websites, which is the fastest and most reliable method.
  • Deadlines vary by locality but commonly fall in June and December; check your bill for your specific due date.
  • Late payments trigger penalties and interest, so setting a reminder or arranging automatic payment helps avoid extra costs.
  • If you cannot pay in full by the deadline, contact your treasurer about payment plans or deferral programs before the due date.

Online payment through your treasurer's website

Most Virginia treasurers now offer online bill pay through their official websites. You will need your property tax account number, which appears on your bill. Log in to the treasurer's portal, enter your account number, and follow the prompts to pay by bank transfer or debit card. Processing usually takes one to three business days, so plan ahead if your due date is soon.

Online payment is the safest method because you get an immediate confirmation number and can track the payment status. Keep this confirmation for your records. If the treasurer's website is down or you cannot access it, call the office directly — staff can walk you through phone payment or mail payment options.

Mail and in-person payment

You can mail a check to your local treasurer's office with your bill stub or account number written on the check. Mail payments take longer to process — typically five to ten business days — so send them at least two weeks before your due date to avoid late fees. Include your property tax account number so the payment is credited to the right account.

In-person payment at the treasurer's office is immediate and gives you a receipt on the spot. Office hours vary by locality, so check the website or call ahead. Some treasurers also accept payments at satellite offices or drop boxes, which may be more convenient than the main office.

Automatic payment and recurring options

Many Virginia treasurers allow you to set up automatic payments from your bank account. This removes the risk of forgetting a due date and can be set to pay the full amount or a partial amount on a schedule you choose. To enroll, contact your treasurer's office — some offer enrollment through their website, while others require a phone call or in-person visit.

Automatic payment typically begins the month after you enroll, so your first payment may still need to be made manually. Ask the treasurer whether automatic payments are deducted on a fixed date each month or adjusted based on your bill amount, since property tax bills can vary year to year.

Payment plans and deferral programs

If you cannot pay your full property tax bill by the due date, contact your treasurer immediately — do not wait until after the deadline. Many Virginia localities offer payment plans that let you split the bill into two or more installments. Some also offer deferral programs for homeowners over 65, disabled homeowners, or those facing financial hardship, though these programs vary widely by locality.

To explore these options, call your treasurer's office and explain your situation. They can tell you what programs your locality offers and what documents you need to submit. Penalties and interest still accrue on unpaid balances, but setting up a plan before the deadline can prevent additional fees and keep your account in good standing.

What happens if you miss the deadline

Late property tax payments trigger a penalty — usually a percentage of the unpaid amount — plus interest that accrues monthly. The exact penalty and interest rate are set by your locality and appear on your bill. If you miss the deadline, pay as soon as possible to stop interest from growing.

If property taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, your locality may place a lien on your home or begin foreclosure proceedings. This is rare for a single missed payment, but it becomes a serious risk if taxes go unpaid for a year or more. If you are struggling to pay, contact your treasurer before the deadline — they would rather work out a plan than pursue collection action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay my Virginia property taxes online with a credit card?

Some Virginia treasurers accept credit card payments online, but many charge a processing fee of 2 to 3 percent. Check your treasurer's website to see if credit card payment is offered and what the fee is. Bank transfer or debit card payment usually has no fee and is faster.

What if I pay online but the payment does not show up on my bill?

Online payments typically post within one to three business days. If more than three days have passed and you have a confirmation number, call your treasurer's office with the confirmation number and the date you paid. They can verify the payment and ensure it is credited to your account.

Do I have to pay property taxes twice a year?

Most Virginia localities bill twice yearly, but some bill once a year or use a different schedule. Check your bill or call your treasurer to confirm how many times per year you are billed and when each payment is due.

Can I defer my property taxes if I am retired or disabled?

Some Virginia localities offer tax deferral programs for homeowners over 65 or with disabilities, but these programs vary by county and city. Contact your treasurer's office to learn what programs are available in your locality and what proof you need to submit.

What if I disagree with my property tax assessment?

You can file an appeal with your local assessor's office, usually within a set window after you receive your bill. The appeal process and deadline vary by locality, so contact your assessor's office for instructions. Filing an appeal does not stop you from paying your taxes on time.