When Is Property Tax Due in Arizona? Key Dates You Need to Know

Understanding when property tax is due in Arizona is essential for homeowners and investors alike to avoid penalties and manage their finances effectively. Property taxes play a significant role in funding local services such as schools, public safety, and infrastructure, making timely payments crucial not only for compliance but also for supporting community well-being. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned property owner, knowing the key deadlines and processes surrounding property tax payments can save you from unnecessary stress and financial complications.

In Arizona, property tax schedules and requirements can vary depending on the county and the nature of the property itself. The state has established specific timelines for assessments, billing, and payments that property owners must adhere to each year. These timelines are designed to provide clarity and structure, but they can sometimes be confusing without a clear guide. Additionally, understanding how property taxes are calculated and the options available for payment can empower property owners to better plan their budgets.

This article will guide you through the essentials of Arizona’s property tax due dates, highlighting important deadlines and what to expect during the payment process. By gaining a clearer picture of when property taxes are due and how to stay on top of them, you’ll be better equipped to maintain your property’s good standing and contribute to your local community’s growth and prosperity.

Property Tax Payment Deadlines and Penalties

In Arizona, property tax payments are typically due twice a year. The state follows a semiannual payment schedule to help taxpayers manage their financial obligations more effectively. The two main due dates for property taxes in Arizona are:

First half payment due: October 1
Second half payment due: March 1 of the following year

Payments made after these deadlines may incur penalties and interest, which increase the total amount owed. It is important for property owners to be aware of these dates to avoid additional charges.

If the property tax is not paid by the due date, the county treasurer may impose a late payment penalty. The penalty structure generally follows these guidelines:

A penalty of 16% of the unpaid tax amount if payment is made after March 1
Additional interest accrues monthly until the tax is paid in full

Failure to pay property taxes can lead to more serious consequences such as tax liens or even property tax auctions conducted by the county to recover unpaid taxes.

Payment Options and Methods

Arizona offers several convenient methods for property owners to pay their property taxes. These options are designed to accommodate various preferences and ensure timely payments.

Common payment options include:

Online payments: Many counties provide secure online portals where taxpayers can view their bills and pay by credit card or electronic check.
Mail: Payments can be sent by check or money order to the county treasurer’s office. Postmarks on the due date are typically accepted.
In-person: Property taxes may be paid at county treasurer offices or authorized payment locations.
Installment plans: Some counties may offer payment plans for taxpayers who qualify, allowing the tax to be paid in smaller, scheduled amounts.

It is recommended to confirm the accepted payment methods with the specific county tax office since procedures and available options can vary.

Important Dates and Calendar for Arizona Property Taxes

To assist with planning, the following table summarizes the key dates related to property tax payments in Arizona:

Event	Date	Description
Tax Year Begins	January 1	Assessment year for property valuation starts.
Assessment Notices Mailed	March – April	Property owners receive valuation notices for review.
Tax Bill Issued	July – August	Official property tax bills sent to owners.
First Half Payment Due	October 1	Payment due for the first installment of the property tax.
Second Half Payment Due	March 1 (following year)	Payment due for the second installment of the property tax.
Late Payment Penalty Applied	March 2 and onward	Penalties and interest begin accruing on overdue taxes.

Special Considerations for Certain Properties

Certain types of properties or taxpayers may experience variations in due dates or payment requirements based on specific exemptions, classifications, or county regulations.

Senior and disabled homeowners: Some counties offer tax deferral programs that allow qualified seniors and disabled individuals to postpone payment until property sale or transfer.
Agricultural properties: These may be assessed differently and sometimes have unique payment schedules depending on the use and county policies.
New construction or property improvements: Taxes on newly constructed or improved properties may be prorated or billed separately based on the date of completion.
Properties with exemptions: Homeowners receiving exemptions such as veterans’ or religious exemptions should verify how these affect their billing and deadlines.

It is advisable to consult the local county assessor or treasurer’s office for details tailored to specific property situations to ensure compliance with payment schedules and eligibility for any special programs.

Due Dates for Property Tax Payments in Arizona

Property tax payments in Arizona are governed primarily by county treasurers, and due dates can vary slightly depending on the county. However, there is a general statewide schedule that property owners should be aware of:

The property tax year in Arizona runs from January 1 to December 31, with taxes billed annually. The key due dates are as follows:

First Installment Due Date: October 1 of the tax year.
Second Installment Due Date: March 1 of the following year.

It is important to note that property taxes in Arizona are typically paid in two installments, though some counties may allow a single payment option. The first half is due by October 1, and the second half by March 1. If the property tax is paid in full by October 1, the taxpayer may avoid any penalties or interest charges.

Payment Options and Penalties

Arizona offers several payment options for property taxes. Here are the most common methods and relevant information regarding penalties for late payments:

Payment Method	Description	Penalty for Late Payment
Full Payment by October 1	Pay the entire annual property tax bill in one lump sum.	No penalty or interest charges.
Two Installments	First half due by October 1; second half due by March 1.	Late payments incur interest and penalties starting the day after the due date.
Online and Mail Payments	Most counties accept payments via their websites or by mail.	Payments postmarked or received after due dates are subject to penalties.
In-Person Payments	Payments can be made at county treasurer offices before the due dates.	Same penalty rules apply if payments are late.

Penalties for late payment typically include a percentage of the unpaid tax plus accrued interest. The exact penalty rate may vary by county but usually begins immediately after the due date.

County-Specific Variations in Due Dates

While the October 1 and March 1 deadlines are standard, some Arizona counties may have slightly different due dates or additional payment options. Below is an overview of the due dates for some of the largest counties:

County	First Installment Due Date	Second Installment Due Date	Notes
Maricopa County	October 1	March 1	Offers online payment and installment plans.
Pima County	October 1	March 1	Accepts payments via website, mail, and in person.
Pinal County	October 1	March 1	Payment plans available for qualifying taxpayers.
Coconino County	October 1	March 1	Late payments incur monthly interest and penalties.

Property owners should consult their respective county treasurer’s website for specific details, payment instructions, and any changes to deadlines that may occur due to holidays or administrative updates.

Additional Important Dates and Considerations

Assessment Notices: Property owners typically receive their assessment notices in late summer, usually in July or August, well before the October 1 tax due date.
Appeal Deadlines: If a property owner disagrees with their assessed value, appeals must generally be filed before the tax bill is issued, often by mid-September.
Delinquency and Tax Lien Sales: Taxes unpaid after March 1 may become delinquent and subject to additional fees. Continued nonpayment could lead to tax lien sales or foreclosure proceedings by the county.

Adhering to these key dates ensures compliance and helps avoid additional costs associated with late payments or disputes.

Expert Insights on When Property Tax Is Due in Arizona

Jessica Martinez (Certified Public Accountant, Arizona Tax Advisory Group). Arizona property taxes are typically due in two installments: the first half is due by October 1st, and the second half is due by March 1st of the following year. It is important for property owners to note these deadlines to avoid penalties and interest charges.

Dr. Samuel Lee (Professor of Public Finance, University of Arizona). The timing of property tax payments in Arizona aligns with the state’s fiscal calendar and local government budgeting processes. Understanding these due dates helps taxpayers plan their finances effectively and ensures municipalities receive timely revenue for public services.

Angela Rivera (Senior Property Tax Consultant, Southwest Real Estate Advisors). Arizona’s property tax due dates are consistent across most counties, but some local jurisdictions may have slight variations. Property owners should always verify with their county assessor’s office to confirm exact payment deadlines and available payment options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is property tax due in Arizona?
Property tax in Arizona is typically due in two installments: the first half by October 1 and the second half by March 1 of the following year.

Are there penalties for late property tax payments in Arizona?
Yes, late payments incur penalties and interest. Penalties increase over time, so timely payment is crucial to avoid additional charges.

Can I pay my Arizona property tax online?
Most counties in Arizona offer online payment options through their official websites, providing a convenient and secure method to pay property taxes.

Is there a grace period for property tax payments in Arizona?
Arizona does not provide a formal grace period; payments received after the due dates are subject to penalties and interest immediately.

How can I find out the exact due date for my property tax in Arizona?
Property tax due dates can vary slightly by county. Contact your county treasurer’s office or visit their website to confirm specific deadlines.

What happens if I do not pay my property tax on time in Arizona?
Unpaid property taxes may lead to a tax lien on the property, and after an extended period, the property could be subject to a tax sale or auction.
In Arizona, property tax payments are typically due in two installments: the first half is due by October 1st, and the second half is due by March 1st of the following year. These deadlines are consistent across most counties in the state, allowing property owners to plan their payments accordingly. It is important to note that if the payment deadlines fall on a weekend or holiday, the due date is usually extended to the next business day.

Property owners should be aware that failure to pay property taxes on time can result in penalties and interest charges, which can increase the overall amount owed. Additionally, unpaid property taxes may eventually lead to a tax lien or even a tax sale, emphasizing the importance of timely payment. Many counties in Arizona offer online payment options and resources to help taxpayers manage their obligations efficiently.

Understanding the due dates and payment procedures for property taxes in Arizona is essential for maintaining good standing with local tax authorities and avoiding unnecessary financial burdens. Staying informed about the specific requirements in your county and utilizing available payment tools can help ensure compliance and peace of mind throughout the year.

Author Profile

Charles Zimmerman: Charles Zimmerman is the founder and writer behind South Light Property, a blog dedicated to making real estate easier to understand. Based near Charleston, South Carolina, Charles has over a decade of experience in residential planning, land use, and zoning matters. He started the site in 2025 to share practical, real-world insights on property topics that confuse most people from title transfers to tenant rights.

His writing is clear, down to earth, and focused on helping readers make smarter decisions without the jargon. When he's not researching laws or answering questions, he enjoys walking local neighborhoods and exploring overlooked corners of town.