Central Ohio Homeowners: Important Property Tax Updates + Market Notes
Central Ohio Property Tax Updates:
What Homeowners Need to Know This Season
Property tax season is approaching, and several Central Ohio counties have introduced important updates—ranging from revised due dates to new payment options. Staying informed now can help you avoid late penalties, interest charges, or unexpected escrow issues later.
Below is a clear, county-by-county breakdown to help you plan ahead with confidence.
Central Ohio Property Tax Due Dates & County Updates
Franklin County
Franklin County has officially revised its real estate tax due dates beginning with the most recent billing cycle.
Updated Due Dates
- First-Half Real Estate Taxes: Due February 28 (or the next business day if it falls on a weekend)
- Second-Half Real Estate Taxes: Due no earlier than July 20 (exact date confirmed mid-year)
Why This Matters
These changes were designed to allow more time between when tax bills are mailed and when payments are due.
While this is helpful for homeowners, it also requires mortgage lenders and escrow companies to update their systems.
👉 If your taxes are escrowed, I strongly recommend confirming that your lender has the revised Franklin County due dates on file.
⚠️ Late payments are still subject to penalties and interest—even if the delay is caused by outdated escrow timing.
Delaware County
Delaware County has maintained its traditional due dates but has made meaningful improvements to payment flexibility.
Typical Due Dates
- First Half: February
- Second Half: July
New and Improved Options
- Expanded online payment functionality
- Monthly payment plans that allow taxes to be spread out over the year
- Reduced fees for certain electronic payment methods
These options are especially beneficial for homeowners who do not escrow their property taxes and prefer more predictable cash flow.
Union County
Union County continues to follow a standard semi-annual tax schedule.
Typical Due Dates
- First-Half Taxes: Mid-February
- Second-Half Taxes: Mid-July
Additional Notes
- Online payments are available
- Optional escrow-style monthly payment plans are offered
- Late payments may trigger a 5% penalty quickly, with additional penalties if unpaid
Staying on top of deadlines is especially important in Union County due to strict penalty enforcement.
Fairfield County
Fairfield County remains consistent with Ohio’s traditional property tax calendar.
Typical Due Dates
- First-Half Real Estate Taxes: Mid-to-late February
- Second-Half Real Estate Taxes: Mid-July
Online payment options are available, though convenience fees may apply depending on the payment method used.
Knox County
Knox County also follows a February/July tax cycle, though exact dates may vary slightly from year to year.
Typical Due Dates
- First-Half Taxes: Early-to-mid February
- Second-Half Taxes: Early-to-mid July
Important Reminder: Not receiving a bill does not excuse late payment. Homeowners are responsible for confirming amounts and deadlines directly with the county.
Licking County
Licking County uses a traditional semi-annual structure.
Typical Due Dates
- First-Half Taxes: Mid-February
- Second-Half Taxes: Mid-July
Payment Options
- Online payments
- Mail-in payments
- In-person and drop-box options through the Treasurer’s Office
As with other counties, penalties apply immediately after the due date.
Pickaway County
Pickaway County follows Ohio’s standard property tax cycle.
Typical Due Dates
- First-Half Real Estate Taxes: February
- Second-Half Real Estate Taxes: July
Exact dates are confirmed each billing cycle, so it’s important to review your mailed bill or check the county treasurer’s website closely.
Smart Reminders for Homeowners
✔️ Confirm escrow settings with your lender—especially if you own property in Franklin County
✔️ Mark due dates on your calendar now to avoid penalties and interest
✔️ Consider monthly payment plans where available to reduce lump-sum stress
✔️ Keep your mailing address current with the county auditor
If you ever want help understanding how property taxes factor into buying, selling, or long-term homeownership planning—or if something on your bill doesn’t look right—I’m always happy to walk through it with you.
A Quick Central Ohio Market Check-In
While I have your attention, here’s what I’m seeing across the local housing market:
- Inventory has increased compared to last year, giving buyers more options and breathing room
- Homes that are priced correctly and well-prepared are still selling, but buyers are less forgiving of overpricing
- Overall, we’re seeing a healthier, more balanced market—this is normalization, not a bubble
For homeowners, this means strategy matters more than ever. For buyers, it means opportunity—with the right guidance.
