CITY NOW ACCEPTS CREDIT CARDS

FOR PROPERTY TAX PAYMENTS

(Tues., Jan. 26, 2010)—Mayor Mufi Hannemann today announced that Honolulu real property owners can now use credit cards and electronic checks (e-checks) to make real property tax payments via the Internet or telephone.

During the tax collection period ending February 22, 2010, real property owners may use Visa or MasterCard credit cards to make such payments. They may also pay via personal or business checking accounts.

“This is an added convenience for taxpayers and it makes good sense,” Hannemann said. “Many taxpayers have requested this service, and we’re pleased to be able to provide it.”

The electronic payment service is provided by Official Payment Corporation, which currently accepts payments for the Internal Revenue Service, Turbo Tax, 25 states, and over 2,500 municipalities.

Official Payment Corporation will separately assess and collect a convenience fee of 2.49% of the amount paid by credit card and $3.30 for e-check payments of $10,000 or less or $15.30 for e-check payments of more than $10,000. 

To make an electronic payment, visit the city’s website at www.hnlpay.com or call (877) 309-9117.  The service will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week during the tax collection period. 

Property owners may also continue to pay by mail or in person at Honolulu Hale, Kapolei Hale or any Satellite City Hall. Credit cards are only accepted via the Internet and telephone service, and not at any of the counters at Honolulu Hale, Kapolei Hale, or Satellite City Halls.

Information about real property tax bills, assessments, and exemptions is available at www.realpropertyhonolulu.com or email bfstreasmailbox@honolulu.gov.

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Media contact: Bill Brennan, Mayor’s Office, 768-6928