Property taxes in Washington State are based on the assessed value of your property and are typically collected by the county where the property is located. Although it might seem complicated, paying your property tax is straightforward and can be done online—no need to hire a CPA.
Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or landlord, this guide will walk you through how to pay property tax in Washington State, with a focus on King County and Snohomish County, where many GPS Renting clients own properties.
Key Takeaways
Due Dates: Washington State property taxes are due in two halves — April 30 and October 31. A 1% monthly interest is charged on unpaid taxes starting November 1.
Self-Service: You do not need a CPA to pay property taxes — homeowners can pay online through their county’s official website.
County Specific: Property tax must be paid to the specific county where your property is located. Use Geocodify’s county finder to determine your county.
King & Snohomish County Focus: Detailed steps are provided for paying taxes in King and Snohomish counties, which cover much of the Seattle area.
Preferred Payment Method: Paying via E-check is the most affordable and convenient method (only $0.55 fee).
Avoid Penalties: Returned checks incur a $35 fee; always verify your information and pay on time to avoid additional charges.
Remote Access: You can pay property taxes online from anywhere in the world using an internet connection.
Washington Property Tax Deadlines
Washington State allows property taxes to be paid in two installments each year:
- First Half Due: April 30
- Second Half Due: October 31
If not paid by the due dates, taxes become delinquent on November 1, and a 1% monthly interest is applied to the overdue amount.
Step 1: Identify Your County
Before paying, you need to know which county your property is located in.
Use this online tool:
https://geocodify.com/what-county-am-i-in
Enter your property address and the site will tell you the correct county.
Alternatively, you can find this information on real estate websites like Redfin.com.
Step 2: Visit Your County’s Property Tax Website
For King County
Official Property Tax Page:
https://kingcounty.gov/depts/finance-business-operations/treasury/property-tax.aspx
Alternative if link is broken:
Visit https://kingcounty.gov, then navigate: Departments > Finance & Business Operations > Treasury > Property Tax
Instructions:
- Go to the King County Property Tax page.
- If you don’t know your parcel number, use the Property Information Search tool to find it.
- Enter your property address and search. Your Parcel Number will appear at the top of the results.
- Copy the Parcel Number and proceed to the Property Tax Bill page.
- Select Real Property Tax (applies to most owners).
- Enter your Parcel Number (no dashes) and search.
- Choose the installment or total to pay and add it to the payment list.
Payment Options:
- Credit Card: 2.35% fee
- E-Check: $0.55 fee
- Debit Card: $3.50 fee
Click “Make Payment,” enter your details, and confirm to complete the payment.
For Snohomish County
Official Property Tax Page:
https://snohomishcountywa.gov/5167/Assessor
Alternative if link is broken:
Go to https://snohomishcountywa.gov and search for “Property Tax Payment” or use the “Assessor” department page.
Instructions:
- Search for your property using the address.
- Once you’re on the property details page, select the tax you want to pay.
- Click “Add To Payment List” and confirm.
- Choose your preferred payment method.
- Click “Pay Now” to go to the payment screen.
- Enter your payment info and submit.
Note: Returned checks will result in a $35 service fee.
Online Payment FAQs
I’m not in the U.S.—how can I pay my tax bill?
No problem. You can pay online using an E-check or credit card. Tax bills are typically mailed to the property address on file, but online payment is available to anyone with Internet access.
What’s the best way to pay?
E-check is the most cost-effective option.
- Just $0.55 per transaction
- Requires your bank routing and account numbers
Avoids credit card fees (2.35%)
Final Tips
- Always pay before the April 30 and October 31 deadlines to avoid penalties.
- Keep digital or printed copies of payment confirmations.
Make sure your mailing address is up to date with the county.
Need Help?
King County Property Tax FAQs:
https://kingcounty.gov/depts/finance-business-operations/treasury/property-tax/faq.aspx
Snohomish County Assessor Page:
https://snohomishcountywa.gov/5167/Assessor
For further questions, reach out to your county’s assessor’s office or contact us at GPS Renting.
About GPS Renting
GPS Renting is a full-service property management company serving the greater Seattle area.
- No advertising fees
- No tenant placement fees
- No markup on maintenance
- No lease renewal fees
- Over 400 properties managed
- Access to exclusive, off-market investment deals
Visit www.GPSRenting.com to learn more or get in touch.