Like everyone else it seems, paying your taxes at the very last moment is the only way to do it.  I’ve done it on-line and at Chase Bank, but those two methods result in a debit to your account almost immediately.  Paying by mail gives a good amount of float, but standing in line to make sure you get a proof of mailing and cancellation date takes a while. The best way?  Stand in the “line” at the County Treasurer’s office.  I’ve never waited more than a minute and it’s good exercise for me to get out and walk.  Just did it yesterday.  And guess what?  They won’t cash the check for almost a week if past history holds.