Behind on property taxes · Cincinnati
Behind on property taxes in Hamilton County? Start here.
Unpaid property taxes add up quickly with penalties and interest. If they stay unpaid, the county can foreclose. The good news: there are payment plans, and you can still sell.
Does this sound familiar?
- You got a delinquent tax notice from the County Treasurer
- Taxes went up after a reassessment
- Your mortgage escrow ended or you inherited a home with back taxes
- You're worried about losing the house
You're not alone, and you're not out of options.
Your options
Every path, including the ones that don't involve selling to us.
- 01
Set up a delinquent tax contract
The Hamilton County Treasurer offers payment plans so you can catch up over time. Making payments can stop foreclosure.
- 02
Check for tax reductions
Seniors and disabled homeowners may qualify for the Homestead Exemption. You can also challenge your property value with the Board of Revision.
- 03
Refinance or borrow
If you have equity, a loan could pay off the taxes, but be careful with high-interest lenders.
- 04
Sell the property
Back taxes are paid from the sale money at closing. You keep whatever is left.
Good to know in Ohio and Hamilton County
In Hamilton County, property taxes are paid twice a year. Late payments get penalties and interest.
Hamilton County TreasurerIf taxes stay unpaid, the county prosecutor can file for tax foreclosure. In some cases, a delinquent tax lien can be sold to a private investor who adds more interest.
The Ohio Homestead Exemption reduces taxes for qualifying seniors (65+) and people who are permanently disabled, based on income limits.
General information only, not legal or tax advice. Rules change, so confirm details with the right office or a licensed professional.
Common questions
Can I sell a house that owes back taxes?+
Yes. The title company pays the taxes from the sale money at closing.
How long before the county forecloses?+
It depends, but once taxes have been delinquent for about a year, the county can start the process. Call the Treasurer as soon as you can.
Will a payment plan stop foreclosure?+
Generally yes, as long as you keep making the plan payments on time and stay current on new taxes.
Is selling to us a fit?
We may be a fit if catching up isn't realistic or the house needs work too. If a payment plan works for you, that's often the best option.
Want to talk through your options?
No pressure and no obligation. A real person from our Cincinnati team will reach out to talk through your options, even if that means not selling to us.
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