Delinquent Property Tax Attorney in Texas
Protect your property and address unpaid property taxes before foreclosure occurs.
In Texas, unpaid property taxes can quickly lead to penalties, interest, lawsuits, and even foreclosure. Once taxes become delinquent, the situation can escalate rapidly under the Texas Property Tax Code.
​
Michael Saegert represents Texas property owners facing delinquent property tax issues, helping them understand their options and take action to protect their property rights.
When Do Property Taxes Become Delinquent in Texas?
Property taxes are generally due by January 31 of the year following assessment. If unpaid by that date, they become delinquent.
​
Once delinquent:
-
Interest begins accruing at 6% annually and increases monthly up to 12%
-
Penalties are added
-
A tax lien automatically attaches to the property
-
Legal action may follow
Delinquent taxes do not go away — they grow.
What Happens If Property Taxes Remain Unpaid?
1. Tax Lien
Texas law automatically places a lien on the property. This lien typically takes priority over most other claims.
2. Collection Efforts
The taxing authority may:
-
Send delinquency notices
-
Add collection fees
-
Refer the account to attorneys
-
Initiate legal proceedings
3. Delinquent Tax Lawsuit
If taxes remain unpaid, a lawsuit may be filed in district court seeking:
-
Judgment for the taxes owed
-
Foreclosure of the property
4. Tax Foreclosure Sale
If judgment is granted, the property may be sold at public auction.
Texas property owners may have a statutory redemption period after sale, but redemption requires full payment of taxes, interest, penalties, and costs.
Your Options for Resolving Delinquent Property Taxes
Every situation is different. Possible options may include:
-
Negotiating installment payment plans
-
Reviewing the validity of the tax assessment
-
Challenging procedural defects in the lawsuit
-
Seeking applicable exemptions or corrections
-
Addressing omitted or incorrectly assessed property
Acting early increases your available options.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Delinquent tax cases are governed primarily by:
​
-
Texas Property Tax Code Chapter 31 (Collection of Taxes)
-
Chapter 33 (Remedies & Foreclosure)
These statutes contain strict procedural requirements.
​
An experienced property tax attorney can:
-
Review the delinquency timeline
-
Analyze legal defenses
-
Communicate with the taxing authority
-
Negotiate payment arrangements
-
Defend foreclosure actions when appropriate
Serving Property Owners Across Texas
Based in Houston, we represent property owners statewide, including Harris County, Pasadena, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, El Paso, and surrounding areas.
If you are facing delinquent property taxes, early intervention can make a significant difference.
Michael Saegert,
Attorney at Law
(713) 673-8754
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
