Constitutional Tax Collector Anne M. Gannon announced the collection of 2020 property tax began Friday, Oct. 30
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WEST PALM BEACH — Constitutional Tax Collector Anne M. Gannon announced the collection of 2020 property tax began Friday, Oct. 30, two days ahead of schedule. Total billing is $4.4 billion, up $108 million from 2019.
Gannon’s office mailed 638,281 tax bills to Palm Beach County property owners last week.
As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the U.S., Gannon underscored the importance of safely collecting 2020 property tax dollars which help fund critical services in the community.
“These tax dollars are needed now more than ever to fund critical services we all rely on,” said Gannon. “My office is ready to safely begin the collection and distribution of property taxes on behalf of Palm Beach County for the greater good of our community.”
Gannon reminded the public that an appointment is required for Palm Beach County residents who must visit the Tax Collector’s Office. “Requiring an appointment for in-person service helps protect the health of our employees and our clients,” said Gannon.
“I must do everything I can to ensure this agency continues to provide essential services during the pandemic.”
Gannon urged the public to pay property taxes online at www.pbctax.com. The agency’s website was updated in June in anticipation of higher-than-normal use during property tax season due to the pandemic. The new website design is fully mobile-responsive and ADA-compliant, making it easier for everyone to use. Taxpayers can visit the website to view, print and pay their property tax bill, find answers to frequently asked questions, or schedule an appointment.
“There really is no need to pay in person. Paying 2020 property tax online is the safest, smartest, and fastest way to pay,” said Gannon. “And it’s easy. There is no login or password to remember. In just a few clicks, you’re done.”
Clients can save money when paying online by using eCheck instead of a credit card. Unlike credit cards which charge a 2.4% convenience fee, the agency’s eCheck payment option is free.
Other recommended payment options include using the agency’s secure drop boxes, located inside each service center during regular business hours. Clients can also pay by wire transfer and should visit www.pbctax.com/wires for wire instructions.
Taxpayers can save money by taking advantage of early payment discounts. Clients who pay in November receive a 4% discount. A 3% discount is available in December, 2% discount in January, and 1% discount in February.
There is no discount available for payments made in March.
The deadline to pay 2020 property tax is March 31, 2021. Property taxes become delinquent on April 1, 2021.
2020 Property Tax Season Facts
Palm Beach County’s top property taxpayers by the amount of taxes billed are:
1. Florida Power & Light Co. - $111,099,100.13
2. Town Center at Boca Raton Trust - $11,262,447.42
3. Gardens Venture LLC - $7,322,518.71
4. Boca Owner LLC - $7,240,577.65
5. Breakers Palm Beach Inc. - $7,220,506.36
Property Tax Quick Facts
• Total amount billed in 2020 was $4,371,508,071.09; and in 2019 was $4,263,437,743.53
• Bills mailed by Tax Collector’s Office in 2020 was 638,281; and in 2019 was 635,557
• Total number of parcels in 2020 was 704,434; and in 2019 was 701,292
These totals include parcels billed on the Installment Payment Plan.
