How TxTag toll payment works

TxTag is a transponder system that lets you drive through toll plazas in Texas without stopping. When you pass under a toll reader, the system deducts the toll amount from your prepaid account. You do not pay at a booth — the charge happens automatically as you drive.

TxTag operates on most toll roads in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Houston area, and Austin area. The toll amount varies by road, time of day, and distance traveled. If your account runs low or empty, you will receive notices, and unpaid tolls can result in late fees and vehicle registration holds.

You can pay tolls three ways: by setting up automatic replenishment so your account refills when it drops below a certain balance, by making a one-time payment when you notice your balance is low, or by paying an invoice if you have already incurred unpaid tolls.

Key Takeaways

  • TxTag charges tolls automatically when your transponder passes under a toll reader, so you need an active prepaid account with money in it.
  • You can set up automatic replenishment through your TxTag account so tolls are paid without you having to remember to add funds.
  • One-time payments can be made online, by phone, or by mail if you want to add funds without setting up automatic replenishment.
  • If you receive a notice of unpaid tolls, you can pay the invoice through the same methods, but late fees will be added to the original toll amount.

Setting up automatic replenishment

Automatic replenishment is the most common way to keep your TxTag account current. You set a threshold balance — for example, $10 — and when your account drops below that amount, the system automatically charges your payment method and adds funds back in.

To set this up, log into your TxTag account at www.txtag.org using your username and password. Go to "Account Settings" or "Manage Account," then look for "Replenishment" or "Auto Pay." Choose your threshold amount (usually $10, $20, or $25), select your payment method, and confirm. The system will charge you only when your balance falls below the threshold you set.

You can change or cancel automatic replenishment at any time through the same account settings. If you want to pause it temporarily, you can do that without closing your account.

Making a one-time payment online

If you do not want automatic replenishment, you can add funds to your account whenever you choose. Log into your TxTag account at www.txtag.org and select "Add Funds" or "Make a Payment."

Enter the amount you want to add — there is usually a minimum of $10 and a maximum of $500 per transaction. Choose your payment method (debit card, credit card, or bank account), review the details, and submit. The funds are typically available in your account within a few minutes, though it can take up to 24 hours depending on your bank.

Keep in mind that TxTag charges a small processing fee for one-time payments made by credit card, though there is usually no fee if you pay by debit card or bank transfer.

Paying by phone or mail

If you do not have internet access or prefer not to pay online, you can call TxTag customer service at 1-888-839-8254 to make a payment over the phone. Have your account number and payment method ready. Customer service representatives can process one-time payments and help you set up automatic replenishment.

You can also mail a check or money order to the address listed on your TxTag invoice or statement. Include your account number with the payment so it is credited to the correct account. Mail payments take longer to process — typically 7 to 10 business days — so use this method only if you have time before your balance runs out.

What to do if you receive an unpaid toll notice

If your account balance reaches zero and you continue to use toll roads, TxTag will send you a notice of unpaid tolls. This notice includes the original toll amounts plus a late fee. You have the option to pay the full invoice or set up a payment plan.

Pay the invoice through the same methods available for regular payments: online at www.txtag.org, by phone at 1-888-839-8254, by mail, or in person at a TxTag customer service center. If you do not pay within a certain timeframe (usually 60 days), the unpaid amount can be reported to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, which may place a hold on your vehicle registration renewal.

If you believe the charges are incorrect, you can dispute them through your online account or by calling customer service. Have your transponder ID and the dates of the disputed tolls ready.

Checking your account balance and transaction history

You can check your current balance and see all recent toll charges by logging into your TxTag account at www.txtag.org. Your balance appears on the dashboard as soon as you log in. Click on "Transaction History" or "Account Activity" to see a detailed list of every toll you have been charged, including the date, time, location, and amount.

You can also set up account alerts through your online settings so you receive an email or text message when your balance drops below a certain amount. This gives you a heads-up to add funds before you run out.

If you need a printed statement or receipt, you can read it from your account or request one by phone or mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my TxTag account is empty when I drive through a toll plaza?

The toll reader will record your transponder ID and the toll amount. TxTag will send you a notice with the unpaid toll plus a late fee. You must pay this invoice to avoid registration holds and additional penalties. The sooner you pay, the lower your total cost.

Can I use someone else's TxTag transponder to pay my tolls?

No. Each transponder is linked to a specific account and vehicle. Using another person's transponder is considered toll evasion and can result in fines and legal action. If you need a transponder, you must open your own TxTag account.

How long does it take for a payment to show up in my account?

Online payments typically appear within a few minutes to 24 hours. Phone payments are usually processed the same day. Mail payments take 7 to 10 business days. Automatic replenishment charges are applied when ready when your balance drops below your threshold.

Can I get a refund if I overpay my TxTag account?

Yes. If your account has a credit balance and you no longer need the transponder, you can request a refund through your online account or by calling customer service. Refunds are typically issued within 7 to 10 business days to your original payment method.

What if I move out of Texas or stop using toll roads?

You can close your TxTag account at any time through your online settings or by calling customer service. If your account has a credit balance, you can request a refund. Make sure any unpaid tolls are settled before closing the account.