If you’re having trouble paying Real Estate Taxes on a property that you own but don’t live in, the Department of Revenue will work with you to set up a payment agreement. We have a separate payment agreement program for a property you own AND live in.
All payment agreements require an affordable down payment and have flexible term limits. The maximum length of a payment agreement is 48 months, but shorter agreements mean fewer — even zero — penalties.
All payment agreements require that you also pay your current taxes. This means that you will be paying your overdue taxes in addition to any taxes you normally have to pay.
Who can apply?
Property owners who owe Real Estate Tax, and do not live in their property, can use these agreements to gradually pay off previous years’ debt.
You are not eligible for these agreement terms, if you’re an owner whose property is assigned to:
- City of Philadelphia outside counsel or collection agencies. Please contact the collection agency to set up an agreement.
- Active enforcement (such as Sheriff Sale) with the Law Department. Please call (215) 686-0500
Preferred and Standard agreements
There are two payment agreement types based on your previous agreement history:
- Preferred – If it’s your first time with delinquent taxes, or you have one previous, completed payment agreement you will receive maximum discounts on penalties, and up to 48 months to pay.
- Standard – All other taxpayers will receive a discount on penalties and have up to 36 months to pay.
If you don’t honor the payment agreement, you must pay accrued interest and penalty charges, and you may face legal action and fines.
You can estimate your down payment and monthly payments using an agreement calculator. Other payment term options may be possible.
To apply
To apply for a Real Estate Tax payment agreement contact the Department of Revenue by:
- Sending an email to revenue@phila.gov or
- Calling (215) 686-6442.