Own a property in Philadelphia? Here are two important reminders to keep in mind as the year comes to an end:
- If you still haven’t paid your 2025 Real Estate Tax, make sure you pay by December 31.
- December 31 is also the due date for the first half of the 2026 Commercial Trash Fee.
This year’s property tax bills were originally due March 31. Still haven’t paid? Your account is already accruing 1.5% additional monthly cost. But things could get complicated if you don’t take care of this bill before the end of the year. Here are some tips to get you back on track:
Get help: Contact us if you need help lowering your bill or paying it in installments. The City offers several programs that make property taxes more affordable for Philadelphians. Call (215) 686-6442 and ask about our Real Estate Tax relief programs. You can even apply online instead of calling. Our new combined application lets you apply for multiple property tax assistance programs at once! Read this blog post to learn more about the combined application.
Set up a payment plan: Can’t pay your bill all at once? We have programs that can help! While it’s best to pay your bill in full, we understand life happens. We can help you set up a payment plan if paying your full bill isn’t an option right now.
We offer a range of affordable options with flexible terms that can help you stay current. For example, you can set up an Owner-Occupied Payment Agreement (OOPA) to pay your bill monthly.
Pay now: This is the best way to resolve your debt. It is easiest to pay online. Search for your property on the Philadelphia Tax Center and securely pay any pending balances. Your address or OPA number is all you need.
You can also call (877) 309-3710 to pay your bill by phone. Just dial the number and follow the automated voice prompts to complete your payment.
Bills that aren’t paid by December 31 become delinquent on January 1. Once your property has a delinquent balance, the City can put a lien on your property, and your account can accrue penalties.
Don’t make paying your 2025 Real Estate Tax bill a 2026 resolution.
It’s time to pay your trash fee
The 2026 Commercial Trash Fee bills began arriving in mailboxes on November 1 and must be paid by December 31. There’s a chance you got one if you use the City’s trash and recycling service for your small business, multi-unit, or mixed-use property.
Ideally, you should pay the $500 fee up front, but we understand if you can’t. Split it into two installments and pay $250 by December 31, 2025, and the rest by June 30, 2026, without interest and penalty.
It’s easy to pay on the Philadelphia Tax Center. Use the “Property” panel to search for your property and pay your balance. Not paying this bill on time may result in extra charges, and your account may be transferred to a collection agency.
If you have questions or need help, please call (215) 686-6442.
