New Jersey estate facts · Carrying costs
Do property taxes still have to be paid while an estate is being settled?
The short answer
Yes. New Jersey property taxes keep coming due while an estate is open, generally on February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1.
The details
New Jersey property taxes are paid in four quarterly installments. For most towns they're due February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1, and they become delinquent if unpaid after those dates.
An estate doesn't pause the bill. While the house sits empty during probate, taxes keep accruing along with insurance, utilities and upkeep. Unpaid taxes add interest and can eventually lead to a tax sale certificate being sold on the property.
The executor or administrator can usually see the current balance by calling the municipal tax collector with the property's block and lot.
Related estate facts
Other questions families ask.
What should we do about insurance on a parent's empty house?
Call the insurance company. Many homeowner's policies treat a vacant house differently, and coverage can change after a home has been empty for a while.
Read the answer → Estate administrationHow long do creditors have to make a claim against a New Jersey estate?
Generally nine months from the date of death. Creditors present claims to the executor or administrator in writing and under oath.
Read the answer → Selling the houseDoes an inherited New Jersey house need a tax waiver before it can be sold?
Usually, yes. New Jersey real estate generally needs an inheritance tax waiver from the Division of Taxation before it can be transferred.
Read the answer →Talk to a real person
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