As we step into 2026, a significant shift in property tax deadlines is on the horizon for residents of Franklin and Delaware counties in Ohio. This change aims to enhance convenience for taxpayers, but what does it entail?
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Property owners in Franklin County will soon notice alterations to their tax due dates, and Delaware County taxpayers are set for an earlier billing cycle than usual. These shifts are part of an ongoing effort to streamline the tax payment process and provide better service to local residents.
A recent announcement from Franklin County Treasurer Cheryl Brooks Sullivan and Auditor Michael Stinziano detailed these new schedules, noting that while the due dates have changed, the total amounts owed by property owners will remain unchanged, and existing payment plans will be unaffected.
"This change will allow us to better serve the taxpayers of Franklin County by allowing more time between when the bills are mailed to taxpayers and when those payments are due," stated Brooks Sullivan. She emphasized that this adjustment reflects a commitment to enhancing the convenience and efficiency of the tax collection process.
Starting in 2026, the date for the first half of the property tax payment will be February 28. It’s important to note that if this date coincides with a weekend or a legal holiday, taxpayers will need to make their payments on the following business day. Since February 28 falls on a Saturday, the adjusted due date will actually be March 2. Additionally, property owners have the option to pay their entire annual tax bill by this first half due date, providing flexibility to those who prefer to settle their obligations early.
The second half of the property tax payment will be due no earlier than July 20, although the exact date is still pending. This uncertainty stems from House Bill 186, a recently signed piece of legislation that affects property tax regulations in Ohio. Governor Mike DeWine enacted this law on December 19, and officials are currently working out the specifics of its implementation, including establishing the precise due date for the second half tax payment.
For homeowners who utilize an escrow account to manage their tax payments, it is advisable to inform their mortgage lenders about the newly established due dates. Other taxpayers are encouraged to verify that their addresses are accurate with the treasurer’s office and check with their banks regarding any automatic payment arrangements they may have in place.
For further queries or assistance, the Franklin County Treasurer’s Office can be reached at 614-525-3438. Previously, property taxes were due on January 31 and June 20, making these adjustments quite noteworthy.
In Delaware County, Treasurer Ken O’Brien has announced that the first half of the property tax bills is now available for payment. As soon as the Ohio Department of Taxation released the approved tax rates, the county’s office processed them, allowing the owners of approximately 98,060 property parcels to access their tax bills online shortly after January 1.
"Taxpayers may check the Treasurer’s website after January 1 to access an electronic copy of their tax bill," O’Brien mentioned. He also expressed gratitude to Delaware County Auditor George Kaitsa and his team for their vital role in preparing the tax rates used by the Treasurer’s office.
Taxpayers in Delaware County have the convenience of paying online using an eCheck, which incurs a nominal transaction fee of $0.85, or they can choose to pay in person at the Treasurer’s office located on the second floor of the Hayes Building at 145 N. Union St. The deadline for the first half property taxes in Delaware County is set for February 10.
Additionally, residents should expect hard copies of their tax bills to be mailed out by January 15. This proactive communication ensures that taxpayers are well-informed and can plan accordingly.
