Help Paying Delinquent Back Taxes
People who own real property have to pay property taxes annually (full or installments) The amount paid depends on the assessed value of the property (minus credits or deductions the property owner applied for and received).
Property owners can pay the property taxes directly (including installment plans if your county offers it) or through an impound account if the property has a mortgage.
When a property owner doesn’t pay his or her property taxes in a timely manner, the county government creates a tax lien on the property for the delinquent amount. The owner must pay (including penalties and interest) the lien amount to keep the property or risk losing the property at an upcoming delinquent tax sale process (auction).
All states have laws that allow the local government to take real estate if delinquent taxes are not paid.
When a property goes to tax sale auction in Indiana, the winning bidder will receive a “tax lien certificate” for it in exchange for the bidder putting up money to pay the property’s delinquent taxes. The bidder will get ownership of the property if the existing owner does not pay the delinquent taxes, penalties and interests with a one year (redemption period) after the auction.
Finding Money to Pay Property Taxes
Occasionally, some funds become available from the government, such as the case with temporary funding for low income property owners during the COVID pandemic - Indiane Homeowners Assistance Fund (IHAF). . As we become aware of such options we will link them to this page. You should also reach out to your county treasurers and auditors offices on any relief sources they can suggest.
When you do not have money to pay the tax bill when due, and can't borrow the money from family or friends, or from a non-profit organization, a personal loan may be your best option. There are two different types of loans that may assist you: