Just $9.5 million of the $17.59 million in property taxes in Escambia County were collected as of Thurs., Jan. 2.

Residents had until Dec. 31 to pay their portions of the annual property taxes without paying a penalty.

Escambia County Tax Collector Tim Pettis expected that number to grow dramatically by close of business on Jan. 7.

“That number will dramatically increase after the first of the year,” he said. “A lot of people wait until around the 13th (of January). After Jan. 1, 3 percent interest will be charged with a $5 tax collectors’ fee. After March 1, additional fees and penalties will occur.”

Tax notices hit the mail stream on Sept. 28.

There are four exemptions available, including the homestead exemption, disability exemption, over 65 exemption and the current use exemption.

Payments may be made in person at the Escambia County Courthouse and made by credit/debit card by calling 251.867.0299 or at the counter in the courthouse.