Paying your property taxes on time is an essential part of homeownership in Vancouver. The City of Vancouver offers multiple convenient ways to ensure you meet your tax obligations and avoid penalties. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process.
Key Dates to Remember
Vancouver property taxes are due twice a year:
- Advance Tax Due Date: The second business day in February.
- Main Tax Due Date: The first business day in July.
It is crucial to pay by these deadlines to avoid late payment penalties, which can be substantial.
Payment Options
You can pay your property taxes using the following methods:
- Online Banking
- Log in to your online banking account.
- Set up the City of Vancouver as a payee using your property tax folio number (found on your tax notice).
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Schedule your payment well in advance to ensure it is processed by the due date.
Pre-Authorized Payment Plan (PAPP)
- Sign up for PAPP to automatically pay your taxes in 10 monthly installments from your bank account.
- This option helps spread out the cost over the year, making it more manageable.
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You can enroll online or by submitting a paper application.
In-Person
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Visit a financial institution such as your bank to pay in person.
Alternatively, you can pay at City Hall. The address is:
- City Hall: 453 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC
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Ensure you bring your tax notice with you.
By Mail
- Send a cheque payable to "City of Vancouver" along with your tax notice stub.
- Mail it to the address provided on your tax notice.
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Postmarks are not accepted, so mail your payment early to avoid penalties.
Credit Card (Through a Third Party)
- The City does not accept direct credit card payments but partners with third-party providers like PayTM or Plastiq.
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Note that service fees may apply.
Online through the City’s Website
- Visit Vancouver’s Property Tax Payment Portal.
- Follow the instructions to pay securely online.
Home Owner Grant (HOG)
Eligible homeowners can apply for the Home Owner Grant to reduce their property taxes. You must apply for the grant each year by the main tax due date.
- Apply online at gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant.
- Ensure you apply before the main tax due date to avoid penalties on the grant amount.
Late Payment Penalties
- Penalties are applied to any unpaid balance after each due date.
- 5% penalty for balances unpaid after the advance tax due date.
- Additional 5% penalty for balances unpaid after the main tax due date.
To avoid these penalties, ensure payments are submitted and processed by the deadlines.
Tax Notices
Property tax notices are mailed out twice a year. If you haven't received your notice, contact the City of Vancouver immediately to ensure you have the details you need to pay on time.
Need Assistance?
If you have questions or need help with your property taxes, you can:
- Visit the City of Vancouver Property Tax Page.
- Call the Property Tax Office at 3-1-1 (within Vancouver) or 604-873-7000 (outside Vancouver).
By staying informed and organized, you can ensure your property taxes are paid on time and avoid unnecessary stress or financial penalties.