Personal Property Taxes Due Oct. 5: What You Need to Know

Fairfax County is reminding its residents that personal property (car) taxes are due on or before Monday, Oct. 5, and there are some stiff penalties for those who fail to pay on time.

With this in mind, the county wants residents to remember these five things:

1. Do not procrastinate: It’s always better to pay your tax too early than too late. Don’t procrastinate on paying it, or you might forget altogether. And if you come across any questions or concerns, it’s better to address them now than mere hours before your tax is due.

2. Take advantage of the county’s many payment options: You can bring cash or a check down to the Fairfax County Government Center, or can mail in a check to save time. The county also offers an online payment option that you can find here, allowing you to get paid up without leaving your living room.

3. Don’t forget the registration fee: Your bill will include a $33 registration fee for each vehicle you own that weighs less than 4,000 pounds, so be mindful of this fee when budgeting to pay your personal property tax. Vehicles that weigh more than 4,000 pounds will be charged a $38 registration fee, and motorcycles will be charged a $19 fee.

Exceptions: Clifton, Herndon and Vienna residents will not be charged a registration fee by the county, as those matters are dealt with by each town’s incorporated town government.

4. See if you qualify for tax relief: Residents age 65 or older, permanently disabled persons, disabled veterans and spouses of veterans killed in action all qualify for a personal property tax break from the county. To find out more about these breaks or if you qualify, visit the county’s website or call 703-222-8234.

5. What happens if you don’t pay on time: Any residents who fail to pay their personal property tax by the deadline will immediately be charged a 10 percent fee on top of their tax. Once they’re delinquency reaches 30 days, that fee rises to 25 percent. The county has also stated it will send collections agents after those who fail to pay their tax. Additionally, if you mail in a check that bounces, the county will tack on a $50 fee to your tax.