King County property owners have until April 30 to pay 2009 first-half property taxes. After that date, state-mandated interest charges and penalties will be added to the tax bill. To make the process easier, King County provides several ways for property owners to pay their taxes quickly and conveniently.
"Each year, an increasing number of taxpayers in Rural King County are using the County's eTax service to pay their taxes online" said Finance and Business Operations Director Ken Guy, "Making a payment online from your home computer is convenient, safe and provides you with a documented record of your payment." In 2008 over 23,000 taxpayers used the eTax online payment services.
Residents should also be aware that King County cannot absorb credit card processing costs for property tax payments. If you pay using your credit card, the cost of the transaction will be included with the total as required by state law.
Tax payments can be made:
1. By mail if postmarked no later than April 30, 2009. Taxpayers should include their tax statement and write the property tax account number on their check or money order. Cash should not be sent through the mail.
2. In person at Room 600 - Treasury Operations, King County Administration Building, 500 4th Avenue, Seattle, 98104, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
3. At community services centers if paid by check in the exact amount due. The address, phone numbers and operating hours of the King County Community Service Centers are online at http://www.kingcounty.gov/csc/.
4. From a computer using King County's online eTax application with a credit card or an electronic debit from a checking account called an "echeck."
The online option provides an easy, secure and immediate payment confirmation for current year, non-delinquent property tax bills. Delinquent accounts are not payable through the online payment system.
To pay online or view property tax information, taxpayers can visit: http://www.kingcounty.gov/propertytax/.
For questions about missing tax statements or other tax payment information, contact King County Treasury Operations through its web site at http://www.kingcounty.gov/propertytax/, through the automated voice system at 206-296-0923, or through customer service at 206-296-3850.
Information on senior citizen exemption and deferral programs can be obtained from the King County Assessor's Office at 206-296-3920.