2026 payment schedule for Hempstead
| Bill | Mailed | Due (penalty-free) | After |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st half school tax | Oct 2025 | Nov 10, 2025 | 1% penalty after Nov 10; 2% after Dec 10 |
| 2nd half school tax | Apr 2026 | May 10, 2026 | 1% penalty after May 10 |
| 1st half general tax | Jan 2026 | Feb 10, 2026 | 1% penalty after Feb 10 |
| 2nd half general tax | Jul 2026 | Aug 10, 2026 | 1% penalty after Aug 10 |
Late fees and penalties
Nassau County applies a graduated penalty schedule. Paying within the first month after the due date typically incurs a 1% penalty; missing later periods adds further interest each month, then a tax lien if unpaid. To estimate your exact penalty by payment date, use our late penalty calculator.
If you escrow through your mortgage, the lender pays directly — you don’t see the bill. If you pay directly, set a calendar reminder for both the school and general dates.
How to pay
- Official receiver — Town of Hempstead — Receiver of Taxes — online portal, mailing address, phone number, and accepted payment methods
- Online — Most LI receivers now accept credit / debit / e-check. Service fees vary (~2.5% for credit cards; ~$1 flat for e-check).
- In person — Hempstead Town Hall (Receiver of Taxes counter). Confirm hours on the receiver’s site — many offices are open only weekdays 9-4.
- Mail — Postmarked by the due date counts as on-time. USPS metered mail is not accepted as proof of mailing date.
- Drop box — Some receivers operate a 24-hour drop box at Town Hall — check the receiver site to confirm.
Frequently asked questions
Do these dates change year to year?
No. The cycle dates are set by NY State law and Nassau / Suffolk County code. The year on the bill changes, but the calendar dates stay the same.
What if my escrow company missed a payment?
Penalties accrue against the property, not the lender. Contact your servicer immediately and demand they make the payment plus penalty. They are legally required to escrow correctly.
I bought the house mid-year. Whose bill is this?
At closing, the title company prorates property tax between buyer and seller through closing date. The seller pays for the period they owned; you pay for the rest. After closing, the bill is in your name.
Can I prepay next year’s taxes?
Some receivers accept advance payment. Federal SALT-deduction caps may limit the tax benefit. Consult a CPA.
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Sources and citations
- NY Tax & Finance — Property tax calendar tax.ny.gov
- Town of Hempstead — Tax Payment Schedule hempsteadny.gov
Last verified May 11, 2026. Tax rules change; we re-check every page each quarter.
Educational content and estimates only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Verify with your county or town receiver, an attorney or a CPA before making financial decisions.