Disclosures and FAQ
Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP (“LGBS”) provides the following Disclosures and Frequently Asked Questions to assist you in resolving your case(s).
Disclosures
Local property taxes are typically assessed in October of each year and are due and payable on or before February 1 of the following year. After that date they are considered delinquent and begin accruing statutory penalty and interest. If you are unable to pay the full amount of your tax liability you should contact the local tax office and discuss possible alternatives to full payment.
IF YOU ARE 65 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER OR ARE DISABLED, AND YOU OCCUPY THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS TEXT MESSAGE AS YOUR RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD, YOU SHOULD CONTACT THE LOCAL APPRAISAL DISTRICT REGARDING ANY ENTITLEMENT YOU MAY HAVE TO A POSTPONEMENT IN THE PAYMENT OF THESE TAXES.
If you are now a debtor in bankruptcy, or if the debt(s) referenced in our communication have been discharged through a bankruptcy proceeding, then our communication is for informational and verification purposes only, and is not a demand for payment nor an attempt to collect a claim. If you have filed bankruptcy, please provide your bankruptcy information to us at the following site, so that we can process your bankruptcy filing, https://www.lgbs-tax.com/dtax.
When you opt-in for text messages from LGBS, you are agreeing to receive text messages related to your relationship with LGBS, including updates related to your account.
You can opt-out of text messages by texting STOP back to the number we texted you from. Your opt-out request will generate one final message confirming that you have been unsubscribed. You will no longer receive text messages from us. If you want to opt back in to receiving texts, contact our contact center or text HELP to the number we texted you from for instructions.
Message and data rates may apply for any messages sent to you from us and to us from you. Message frequency may vary. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.
FAQ
The following is for informational purposes only; it is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Why have I received a text notice from LGBS?
The tax records of the local tax collector have been provided to us and reflect that the tax liability referenced in our text remains unpaid. The taxing authority has retained LGBS to assist it with resolving outstanding tax liabilities. We are providing this notice in an effort to bring this liability to your attention and work toward getting it resolved.
What if I am financially unable to pay the tax liability?
If you are not taking steps to resolve your tax liability because you are financially unable to do so, we urge you to contact the local tax office and discuss any repayment options that may or may not be available to you. You should be prepared to document and explain to the tax office your financial situation.
Is LGBS a member of any industry associations?
We are members of ACA International (formerly, the American Collectors Association), and Governmental Collectors Association of Texas. For more information about our firm, please visit www.lgbs.com.
Does LGBS service Spanish speaking individuals?
LGBS’s offices have bilingual collection staff on duty. Please contact the LGBS number provided in the text you received for assistance. LGBS also sends out letters for some of our clients in both English and Spanish.
How do I get to the proper tax office to resolve my account?
The text you received has a link to the payment site.
What is the total amount due for my tax liability?
The payment site will provide you with the total amount due. Since our last communication with you, additional fees may have attached.
Can I make a partial payment on the total amount due?
Each tax office handles this differently. Please contact the LGBS number in the text you received to see if partial payments are allowed on your delinquent account.
What payment methods are available to pay the tax liability?
Tax office policies vary. Generally accepted payment methods include: 1) Money order; 2) Personal check; 3) Credit/Debit Card; 4) Electronic check; or Cash (in-person only). Online payments may be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Can I contest the amount of my tax liability?
The Texas Property Tax Code (“Code”) governs the assessment and collection of local property taxes. The Code sets out a detailed administrative process for the appraisal and assessment process. Once taxes are assessed and become delinquent, the Code applies mandatory penalties and interest that neither the tax office or their representatives can deviate from. If you have any specific question, you should contact an attorney of your choosing.