Behind on Property Taxes in Des Moines, IA

Updated October 23, 2026 · Written by Brandon Wielenga, owner of River Capital LLC

If you're behind on property taxes in Des Moines, the amount you owe isn't the scariest number — the interest rate is. Iowa charges 2% per month (24% a year) on tax sale certificates, and Polk County holds its tax sale every June. Every month you wait, the hole gets deeper. But you have options, and acting now is always cheaper than acting later.

Your Options in Des Moines

Pay the treasurer directly — you can redeem at any time before a tax deed issues.
Payment plan — the county may work with you; ask before the sale.
Sell on the market — if you have equity, a sale pays the taxes from the proceeds.
Sell directly for cash — we buy with tax issues all the time; the back taxes get handled at closing.
Property tax relief programs — Iowa has credits for seniors, disabled homeowners, and military families that may reduce what you owe.

We'll help you figure out which fits — including programs you might not know about.

How the Iowa Tax Sale Works

Each year on the third Monday in June, the Polk County Treasurer auctions tax sale certificates for delinquent parcels (Iowa Code § 446.7). The winning bidder pays your taxes and gets a lien — not your house — earning 2% monthly interest. You can redeem any time by paying the treasurer the taxes, interest, and costs.

The certificate holder can't move toward a tax deed until one year and nine months after the sale, then serves a 90-day expiration notice — roughly two years total before you could lose the property. But at 2% per month, waiting the full two years can add thousands to what you owe. (General information, not legal advice — confirm with the Polk County Treasurer.)

Why Des Moines homeowners with tax debt call us

We buy houses with back taxes regularly — it's routine for us
Taxes typically get paid from closing proceeds — often nothing out of pocket
Cash offer in 24 hours, close in as little as 14 days
No fees, no commissions, no pressure

Discuss Your Options Or Get a Cash Offer

Common Questions

Back Taxes in Des Moines — FAQs

When is the next Polk County tax sale?

The third Monday in June, every year.

If my taxes were sold, do I still own my house?

Yes — the buyer got a lien, not ownership. You keep your title until a tax deed issues, which takes roughly two years.

Can I sell a house with delinquent taxes?

Yes. The back taxes are typically paid out of the sale proceeds at closing.

Own a Problem Property in Des Moines?

Let's talk it through. We'll give you a straight answer and a clear look at every option — no pressure, no obligation.