What should I do if I get a tax bill that my servicer did not pay?
Short answer
Contact the mortgage servicer right away and send a written notice of error with a copy of the tax bill. The CFPB also says to contact the tax authority promptly. Unpaid property taxes can lead to a tax lien on the home.
Full explanation
If a city or county bill says the servicer missed the property taxes and the loan has an for taxes, the CFPB says to contact the servicer immediately. A phone call may start the fix, but a written notice of error — a letter disputing the error — generally provides more protections. Send that letter with a copy of the bill.
Also tell the tax authority that you are working with the servicer. If the taxes stay unpaid, a tax lien may be placed on the property.
When an escrowed tax payment was missed, a HUD-approved housing counselor or an attorney may be useful. The CFPB's Find a Counselor tool lists HUD-approved agencies, and the HOPE Hotline is (888) 995-HOPE (4673). If foreclosure is imminent or legal papers have been served, an attorney may also be needed. A CFPB complaint can be filed online or at (855) 411-CFPB (2372).
Sources reviewed
What should I do if I get a tax bill from the city or county saying that my mortgage servicer did not pay my taxes?
Related mortgage terms
Last reviewed
September 10, 2026