If you bought a home in Bastrop this year, your first property tax bill is likely the biggest new bill on your list. The key date to know is Feb. 1: under Texas law, a bill mailed on or before Jan. 10 becomes delinquent if it is not paid by Feb. 1, unless your taxing unit offers a split payment, according to the Texas Comptroller.
Do I pay it myself or does my lender?
Check your closing papers or call your loan servicer. Many mortgages include an escrow account, and the servicer pays the bill from it. If you paid cash or have no escrow, the bill is yours to pay. Either way, it is worth looking at the bill so you know what you owe and to whom.
Why does one bill cover several taxes?
Your total depends on your exact address. It combines Bastrop County, your school district, the city if you are inside city limits, and any emergency services, MUD or PID district. Our Moving to Bastrop guide explains each piece.
What happens if I pay late?
The Texas Comptroller lists the standard charges on a late bill:
| Charge | Amount |
|---|---|
| Penalty | 6% for the first month, plus 1% for each additional month |
| Penalty cap | Reaches 12% on July 1 and stops increasing |
| Interest | 1% for each month or part of a month |
| Attorney fees | Up to 20% may be added after notice |
Can I split the payment in two?
Some taxing units in Texas offer a split payment option. Where it applies, half must be paid by Nov. 30, or the option is not available, and the second half is due by June 30. Not every taxing unit offers it, so call the Bastrop County Tax Office at 512-581-7161 to ask about your bill.
How do I pay my Bastrop County taxes?
The Bastrop County Tax Assessor-Collector offers several ways:
- Online at bastroptac.com.
- By mail to PO Box 579, Bastrop, TX 78602.
- Drop boxes at all tax office locations.
- Drive-thru service at the Cedar Creek, Smithville and Elgin offices.
- In person with an appointment you can book online.
Did I file for my homestead exemption?
If you own and live in your home, the homestead exemption can lower your school taxes. Exemptions go through the Bastrop Central Appraisal District, not the tax office. You can mail the form to P.O. Box 578, Bastrop, TX 78602, email it to [email protected], or use the drop box on the south side of the building at 212 Jackson St. Questions go to the exemptions team at (512) 303-1930. Details are on the Bastrop CAD exemptions page.
This is general information, not tax advice. Your bill and the tax office have the final word on your dates and amounts.
Still house hunting? Our Neighborhoods guide can help, or reach out to us and we will pull the exact tax rates for any home you are considering.
Frequently asked questions
- When are Bastrop County property taxes due?
- Under Texas law, a property tax bill mailed on or before Jan. 10 becomes delinquent if it is not paid by Feb. 1, unless your taxing unit offers a split payment option, according to the Texas Comptroller.
- What is the penalty for paying property taxes late in Texas?
- The Texas Comptroller lists a 6% penalty for the first month plus 1% for each additional month, reaching 12% on July 1, plus interest of 1% per month. Attorney fees of up to 20% may also be added.
- Can I split my property tax payment in Bastrop County?
- Only if your taxing units adopted the split payment option. Where it applies, half must be paid by Nov. 30 and the other half by June 30. Ask the Bastrop County Tax Office if it applies to your bill.
- How do I pay my Bastrop County property taxes?
- You can pay online through bastroptac.com, mail payment to PO Box 579, Bastrop, TX 78602, use a drop box at any tax office location, or use the drive-thru at the Cedar Creek, Smithville and Elgin offices.
- Where do I apply for a homestead exemption in Bastrop County?
- Through the Bastrop Central Appraisal District. You can mail the form to P.O. Box 578, Bastrop, TX 78602, email it to [email protected] or use the drop box at 212 Jackson St.
Sources
- Texas Comptroller: Property tax bill delinquency dates, penalties and interest
- Bastrop County Tax Assessor-Collector
- Bastrop Central Appraisal District: Exemptions
Thinking about moving to Bastrop? Start with our moving guide and neighborhood guide, or send us a question.
