THE City of Vancouver collected 91 per cent of the total property tax levy on time this year, which is in line with the 92 per cent collection rate achieved by the due date in 2019.

Residential and commercial property owners had until September 30 to pay their taxes and utility fees this year, after an extension was made to the original July due date in consideration of the financial impacts that some residents and businesses have been experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year also saw an increase in the number of payments made online.

“Thanks to an extended filing deadline made possible by City Council, as well as direct financial supports by the Federal and Provincial governments to residents, I’m so grateful to the thousands of people who were able to submit their payments on time and help us continue to provide the critical services residents depend on in the midst of COVID-19,” said Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart. “Vancouver continues to provide excellent value to residents despite some of the lowest tax rates in North America – not only below the regional average, but less than half of Toronto’s, and less than a third of Calgary’s.”

While the majority of taxes are typically paid on time each year, the City usually sees eight to 10 per cent of payments made after the due date. Due to payments made by mail still being processed, the final collection rate may be higher.

The City thanked property owners who have fulfilled their tax commitments on time. Taxes and utility fees play a huge part in funding the everyday services that are important to Vancouver’s residents and businesses.