THE SELMA TIMES-JOURNAL

The line to pay property taxes can stretch down the hall at the Dallas County Courthouse, but residents don&8217;t have to wait.

They have options.

The courthouse will be closed all next week, but taxes still have to be paid.

Tammy Jones King suggests Dallas County residents use the various means available because if they&8217;re not paid on time late fees will apply. They can be paid online, mailed or paid by credit card by calling the toll-free number on the back of tax notices.

Some just prefer to pay cash at the window of the tax collector&8217;s office, inside the courthouse. Whatever their preference, time is running out. The courthouse will be open Dec. 31, but residents may have to deal with a long line.

Property taxes, not paid through escrow accounts throughout the year, are due at year&8217;s end. Penalties and interest begin to accumulate starting Jan.2.

Dallas County Commissioners gave county employees the whole week of Christmas off, and are closing the courthouse from Dec. 24 through Dec. 28. Sheriff deputies will work regular patrols, and the jail will remain at full staff.

People mailing property taxes next week won&8217;t have to face additional penalties.