Property tax payments are made twice a year in Turkey. The first installment is due by the end of May, and the second is due by the end of November. These dates are standard every year. So, is there any advantage to paying it all at once? What happens if you miss the deadline? Here's what you need to know.
When is Property Tax Due?
Property tax is paid in two equal installments each year. The deadline for the first installment is generally May 31st, and for the second installment, it is November 30th. If these dates fall on a public holiday, the deadline is extended to the next business day. For example, in 2024, May 31st fell on a Friday, so payments proceeded without issue. However, in 2023, May 31st was a public holiday, extending the deadline to June 1st. The same rule applies this year: the first installment can be paid by the end of business on May 31st, 2025, and the second by November 30th, 2025.
Paying in a Single Installment
If you prefer, you can pay both installments together in May. You don't need to submit any special application; simply paying the total amount during the first installment period is enough. No additional discount or benefit is given for this; it just offers convenience. However, municipalities occasionally run early payment campaigns, so it's worth checking your local district's website.
Where to Pay Property Tax
Payments are made to the municipality where the property is located. You can pay in cash or by credit card at the municipal cashier's office, and many municipalities also offer online payment systems. You can also check your balance and make payments through e-Devlet (Turkey's e-Government gateway). Additionally, you can take care of it at the branches, ATMs, or mobile apps of partnered banks. When making a payment, make sure you have the property's address and your tax number (Turkish ID number or tax ID number) handy.
What Happens If You Pay Late?
A late payment penalty of 1.4% per month is applied for every month you are overdue. This rate can change over time, so confirm the current figure on the Revenue Administration (Gelir İdaresi Başkanlığı) website. Additionally, the municipality can issue a payment order and initiate legal collection proceedings. In cases of prolonged delays, it is even possible for a lien to be placed on the property. It's a good idea to mark the deadlines on your calendar to avoid missing them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tenant pay property tax?
No, the property owner is the taxpayer. A tenant can only pay if it is specifically stated in the rental contract, but the legal responsibility lies with the landlord.
I just bought a house. When do I start paying property tax?
You start paying property tax from the beginning of the year following the title deed registration date. The first installment will come due in May of that year.
Is there a discount for paying property tax in advance?
Generally, no. However, some municipalities occasionally run early payment campaigns. Follow your district municipality's announcements.
The property tax payment schedule is actually quite simple: two installments, two dates. Since the same dates apply every year, you'd think it was impossible to forget. Still, in the rush of daily life, it can slip your mind. Real estate platforms like SahibindenSat offer personalized reminders; you can use tools like these to track accumulated tax dates during your buying and selling process. Make your payments on time and avoid dealing with penalties.