While the first half payment deadline was extended due to the then-emerging COVID-19 pandemic, an extension of the second half deadline could create substantial financial risk for many cities, counties, school districts, fire districts, port districts, and other special purpose districts. These jurisdictions rely heavily on the timely receipt of the year's second installment of property tax revenue to make December debt service payments.

To make the process easier, Kitsap County provides several ways for property owners to pay their taxes quickly and conveniently. Payments can be made:

• Online using Kitsap County's convenient, secure online eCommerce system. Third party service fees apply. Taxpayers may pay with a credit card (2.4%), Visa debit card ($3.95), or an electronic check ($0.50).
• By mail, if postmarked no later than November 2, 2020. Taxpayers should include their statement(s) with their check or money order. Cash should not be sent through the mail. If taxpayers are unable to find their statement(s), simply write the account number on the check or money order.
• Due to the continuing COVID-19 outbreak, customer service counters at Kitsap County facilities remain closed to in-person payments. However, taxpayers can use the specially-marked, secure dropbox located outside the Kitsap County Administration Building, 619 Division Street in Port Orchard to make payments by check or money order. Cash should not be left in the dropbox.

To help taxpayers impacted by COVID-19, Kitsap County initiated a payment plan program earlier this year. This program continues to be available for real property homes, commercial businesses, land, and mobile homes in Kitsap County. To participate, property owners must sign an agreement with the Kitsap County Treasurer. If participating owners also have a mortgage, they should notify their lender about the payment plan program. The Treasurer administers the program and monthly payments are credited to the property tax account once the terms of the payment plan are met.

Taxpayers participating in the plan will also need to pay interest of one percent each month on the outstanding amount of their tax bill, as required by Washington state law. However, the statutory 8% penalty applied annually on December 1 for outstanding property taxes is waived for those who successfully complete the payment plan.

A payment plan for 2020 taxes may be for two or three months, to be completed by December 15. For more information on the 2020 payment plan program or other payment options, visit our Payment Options page or send email to treasurer@co.kitsap.wa.us.