Seller situation

Behind on property taxes? Know which office and which rules

Unpaid property taxes are collected under different rules from mortgage foreclosure, and can lead to a tax sale. Start by asking the tax office about payment agreements and assistance. If you sell, taxes owed are generally paid from proceeds at settlement. Never apply mortgage-sale rules to a tax sale.

Request a property review Discuss a possible sale

Contact the tax office first

In Philadelphia, ask the Department of Revenue about payment agreements. In the suburbs, the county Tax Claim Bureau handles delinquent taxes — Delaware County's is (610) 891-8294.

Tax sale is not a mortgage sale

Notice, timing, redemption and any surplus follow tax-sale law. Ask a lawyer about your specific case.

Selling with taxes owed

A title search shows taxes and liens. They are generally paid at settlement from proceeds.

Watch for scams

The Attorney General warns about deed transfers disguised as tax help. Get independent review before signing.

Taxes and a mortgage together

Some homeowners owe both property taxes and mortgage payments. If your lender pays taxes through escrow, a tax delinquency may also appear in your mortgage payoff. Ask your servicer and the tax office separately, and avoid counting the same tax twice when you estimate proceeds.

Ask the tax office

  • Total owed and what it includes
  • Payment agreement options
  • Assistance programs
  • Whether a sale is scheduled
  • Which office to contact for status

Questions people ask

Is a tax sale the same as a sheriff sale?

Not always. In some counties different offices handle them under different rules.

Can I sell before a tax sale?

Often, but confirm status and timing with the tax office and a lawyer.

Do back taxes come out of my proceeds?

Generally yes, at settlement.

Is there a payment plan?

Ask the tax office; we cannot confirm eligibility.

Related pages

Request a property review

Step 1 of 2. Official help on this page never requires this form.

Bar has more than 25 years in real estate across Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

WorkWithBar is a private business. It is not a government agency, court, HUD- or PHFA-approved housing counselor or law firm, and it does not provide legal or credit-repair services. This intake does not establish a brokerage relationship. Any written proposal will disclose the buyer, their role, the terms and any compensation.

WorkWithBar is a private relationship and opportunity desk. It is not a lender, mortgage broker, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, bank, law firm, or guarantee of funding, investment, or introductions.

Educational information only, not legal advice. Sources checked 2026-11-01; this page has not been reviewed by a lawyer. Programs, phone numbers and dates change — confirm with the official office. Questions: Jabbar@workwithBar.com.

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