King County property owners have until Oct. 31 to pay 2008 second-half property taxes. After that date, state-mandated interest charges and penalties will be added to the tax bill. To make the process easier, King County provides several ways for property owners to pay their taxes.

Tax payments can be made:

1. By mail if postmarked no later than Oct. 31. Taxpayers should include their tax statement and write the property tax account number on their check or money order. Cash should not be sent through the mail.

2. In person at Room 600 – Treasury Operations, King County Administration Building, 500 4th Avenue, Seattle, 98104, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

3. At community services centers if paid by check in the exact amount due. The address, phone numbers and operating hours of the King County Community Service Centers are online at http://www.kingcounty.gov/csc/.

4. From a computer using King County’s online eTax application with a credit card or an electronic debit from a checking account called an “echeck.”

The online option provides a secure and immediate payment confirmation for current year, non-delinquent property tax bills. Delinquent accounts are not payable through the online payment system.

To pay online or view property tax information, taxpayers can visit: http://www.kingcounty.gov/propertytax/.

For questions about missing tax statements or other tax payment information, contact King County Treasury Operations through its web site at http://www.kingcounty.gov/propertytax/, through the automated voice system at 206-296-0923, or through customer service at 206-296-3850.

Information on senior citizen exemption and deferral programs can be obtained from the King County Assessor’s Office at 206-296-3920.