When Are Property Taxes Due in Utah? Here’s What You Need to Know

Understanding when property taxes are due in Utah is essential for homeowners, investors, and anyone involved in real estate within the state. Timely payment of these taxes not only helps avoid penalties and interest but also ensures that local services and community projects continue to receive funding. Whether you’re a first-time property owner or a seasoned resident, knowing the key deadlines and procedures surrounding Utah’s property tax system can save you time, stress, and money.

Property taxes in Utah play a crucial role in supporting public education, infrastructure, emergency services, and other vital community needs. The process of assessing, billing, and collecting these taxes follows a structured timeline that is important to understand. While the general concept of property tax might seem straightforward, the specifics—such as due dates, payment options, and potential penalties—can vary and often raise questions among taxpayers.

This article will guide you through the essentials of property tax deadlines in Utah, helping you stay informed and prepared. By gaining a clear overview of when payments are expected and what factors influence these dates, you can better manage your financial responsibilities and contribute positively to your local community.

Payment Deadlines and Penalties

In Utah, property taxes are due annually and must be paid within specific deadlines to avoid penalties and interest charges. The state sets a uniform due date, but local counties may have slight variations in the exact deadline or accepted payment methods. Generally, property tax payments are due by November 30th of each year.

If the property tax bill is not paid by the deadline, interest begins to accrue starting December 1st. The interest rate charged on late payments is set by state law and can significantly increase the amount owed if the tax remains unpaid for an extended period. Additionally, counties may impose penalties that escalate the longer the tax remains delinquent.

It is important for property owners to understand the consequences of missing the payment deadline:

Interest begins accumulating at 1.5% per month on the unpaid balance.
A penalty of 2% may be applied on the first day after the due date.
Additional penalties and legal actions, including tax liens or foreclosure, can occur if taxes remain unpaid for several years.

To avoid these penalties, property owners should ensure timely payment or contact their county treasurer’s office if they need assistance or payment arrangements.

Property Tax Payment Options

Utah property owners have several options for paying their property taxes, which vary slightly depending on the county but generally include:

Online payments: Many counties offer secure online portals for paying property taxes using credit cards or electronic checks.
Mail: Payments can be mailed to the county treasurer’s office, typically requiring a postmark on or before the due date.
In-person: Tax payments can be made directly at the county treasurer’s office during business hours.
Installment plans: Some counties allow payment in installments, though interest may still accrue on the unpaid balance.

It is advisable to verify the accepted payment methods with the local county treasurer to ensure timely and correct processing.

Annual Property Tax Timeline in Utah

The following table outlines the typical timeline for property tax activities in Utah:

Month	Activity	Details
January – March	Assessment Notices	Property owners receive notices of assessed values from the county assessor.
April – May	Appeal Period	Owners may contest assessments with the county board of equalization.
August – September	Tax Rate Adoption	Local taxing entities set the property tax rates for the upcoming tax year.
October	Tax Bills Issued	County treasurer mails property tax statements to owners.
November 30	Payment Due Date	Final date for property tax payments without penalty or interest.
December 1 and onward	Delinquency and Penalties	Interest and penalties begin accruing on unpaid taxes.

Due Dates for Property Taxes in Utah

Property taxes in Utah are assessed annually and have specific due dates set by state law. Understanding these deadlines is essential to avoid penalties and interest charges.

In Utah, property tax payments are typically due twice a year. The payment schedule is as follows:

First Installment: Due by November 30 of the tax year
Second Installment: Due by May 31 of the following year

These dates apply to most counties within Utah, as the state follows a uniform deadline system for property tax collections.

Payment Periods and Penalties

Utah property taxes are billed based on the assessed value of your property as determined by the county assessor. Once the tax bill is issued, payments must be made by the stated deadlines to avoid penalties.

Payment Period	Due Date	Penalty for Late Payment
First Installment	November 30	5% penalty if paid after November 30
Second Installment	May 31	5% penalty if paid after May 31

If either installment is not paid by the due date, a penalty of 5% is added to the unpaid amount. Additionally, interest accrues on unpaid taxes at a rate determined by state law until the balance is settled.

Options for Paying Property Taxes in Utah

Utah offers multiple convenient payment methods to accommodate taxpayers:

Online Payments: Most counties provide online portals where payments can be made via credit card or e-check.
Mail: Taxpayers can mail a check or money order payable to the county treasurer.
In-Person: Payments can be made at the county treasurer’s office during business hours.

It is important to confirm the accepted payment methods and deadlines with your local county treasurer’s office, as minor variations may exist.

Special Considerations for Certain Taxpayers

Certain groups may qualify for property tax deferrals, exemptions, or special payment arrangements in Utah. These may affect the due dates or payment amounts:

Senior Citizens and Disabled Individuals: May be eligible for tax deferral programs that allow postponing payments until property sale or transfer.
Veterans: Some veterans may qualify for exemptions or reduced tax rates.
New Construction or Improvements: Taxes on new construction may be prorated and billed at different times.

Consult your county assessor or treasurer for specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for these programs.

Expert Perspectives on Utah Property Tax Deadlines

Linda Martinez (Senior Tax Analyst, Utah State Tax Commission). When are property taxes due in Utah? The state typically sets the primary due date for property tax payments on November 30th each year. Homeowners should be aware that paying by this deadline helps avoid penalties and interest charges. Additionally, there is a secondary due date on February 28th of the following year for any remaining balance, but early payment is always encouraged to maintain compliance and financial planning.

Dr. Kevin Huang (Professor of Public Finance, University of Utah). In Utah, property tax due dates are structured to align with the fiscal calendar and local government budgeting needs. The first installment is due by November 30th, which allows counties to collect revenues in time for their annual budgets. If taxpayers miss this deadline, they have until February 28th to pay without incurring additional penalties. Understanding these deadlines is crucial for property owners to manage their finances effectively and avoid unnecessary fees.

Susan Reynolds (Certified Public Accountant, Reynolds Tax Advisory). For property owners in Utah, the key dates to remember are November 30th for the initial property tax payment and February 28th for any remaining balance. These deadlines are strictly enforced, and failure to pay on time can result in penalties and interest. I advise clients to set reminders well in advance and consider early payment options if possible, as this can simplify year-end financial planning and prevent last-minute issues with their property tax obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When are property taxes due in Utah?
Property taxes in Utah are due annually on November 30th. Payments received after this date may incur penalties and interest.

Is there a discount for early payment of property taxes in Utah?
Yes, Utah offers a 2% discount if property taxes are paid in full by November 30th.

Can property taxes be paid in installments in Utah?
No, Utah requires full payment of property taxes by the due date; installment plans are generally not available.

What happens if I miss the property tax deadline in Utah?
Late payments are subject to a 2% penalty starting December 1st, with additional interest accruing monthly until paid.

Where can I pay my Utah property taxes?
Property taxes can be paid online through the county treasurer’s website, by mail, or in person at the county treasurer’s office.

Are there any exemptions or reductions available for Utah property taxes?
Yes, Utah offers exemptions and reductions for certain groups, including veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, subject to eligibility criteria.
In Utah, property taxes are typically due twice a year, with payments required by November 30th for the first half and May 31st for the second half. These deadlines are established to ensure timely collection and proper allocation of funds for local government services, including schools, public safety, and infrastructure. Property owners should be aware of these dates to avoid penalties or interest charges on late payments.

It is important to note that Utah offers options for property owners to pay their taxes either in two installments or as a full payment by the November deadline. Additionally, certain exemptions and abatements may apply, potentially reducing the overall tax burden for eligible individuals. Staying informed about these provisions can provide financial relief and aid in effective tax planning.

Ultimately, understanding the due dates and payment options for property taxes in Utah is essential for homeowners and investors alike. Timely payments help maintain community services and prevent legal complications. Consulting local county tax offices or official websites can provide the most accurate and updated information tailored to specific property locations within the state.

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.