STORY BY ANDREW GARNER of THE ATMORE ADVANCE

The deadline to pay this year’s property taxes is Sat., Dec. 31.

Escambia County Tax Collector Tim Pettis said before the deadline, residents are encouraged to pay the current amount they have been billed.

Pettis said there are a couple of ways residents can pay.

“They can call and pay over the phone using a debit or credit card,” Pettis said.

Pettis said there the tax collector’s office can’t take American Express cards, and there will be a 2.5 percent added charge on debit or credit card charges.

“You can pay for it that way or mail in a check, but make sure it’s post dated Dec. 31 or prior,” he said.

Pettis said a penalty will be assessed on property taxes not paid starting Jan. 1, 2017.

Pettis said tax collections can be made at the Atmore satellite office or the Brewton courthouse via check, credit/debit card or money order.

As of Dec. 6, the county’s tax collector’s office has collected $5,617,323.27 in property taxes.

Pettis said the county is expected to receive $16,544,792.71 in property taxes.