ST. CLAIRSVILLE — Belmont County Treasurer Katherine J. Kelich announced that the final date for payment of first-half 2020 Real Estate Tax bills is Friday, Feb. 19.

Postmark by that date is accepted as a timely payment. To ensure that the postmark is placed on the envelope, it is recommended that the envelope is taken into the post office and postmarked. If there is no postmark and it is received after the due date, it is not accepted as a timely payment.

A 5 percent penalty will be added to any current year payments made within the first ten days after the due date. Thereafter, all unpaid bills will have a 10 percent penalty added to the current year unpaid balance.

Payments may be made in the following manner: (1) By mail – Mail the payment of check, money order or certified funds utilizing the self-addressed return envelope. Do not send cash. (2) By Dropbox – A secure drop-box is located on the left side of the front stairs of the courthouse. Do not pay by cash using the Dropbox. (3) By credit card, debit card, or e-check – Visit www.belmontcountytreasurer.org to make the payment or call 1-866-558-3852. There is a convenience fee assessed. (4) In office – though this practice is discouraged, you may visit the office to make your payment. You must maintain social distancing while in the courthouse. Masks are required. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. All federal holidays are observed. The tax stub apparent on the top-half of all tax bills should accompany any of the payment methods selected.