Property owners in Kamloops will begin to get property tax notices either by post or email today, May 29, with taxes due on July 2.
However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the city has made adjustments to the penalties that people would pay for late taxes. Residential, utilities, supportive housing, and farm tax classes won’t face any penalties until July 31. In August and September, the penalty will be five per cent, climbing to 10 per cent on October 1.
Meanwhile, both light and major industry, businesses, recreational properties, non-profits, and managed forest land will be exempt from penalties until October 1 as well. However, the city is asking people who can pay their taxes on time to do so, as the city relies on the revenue to operate.
The city cut the planned tax increase from 2.97 per cent to 2.3 per cent, and people are being encouraged to pay their taxes online or by phone in a bid to limit contact with people because of the pandemic.
“The whole process can be completed online, which is the recommended option this year to aid with social distancing,” said Cara Dawson, the City’s Revenue and Taxation Manager. “You can claim your Home Owner Grant online, and you can use online banking through your financial institution’s online bill payments option to pay your property taxes.”
To pay online, you’re asked to sign into your online bank account and search payees for the word ‘Kamloops’ after while select the Kamloops property tax option as the payee, and use the 10-digit folio number on the notice as the account number.
“You can also pay in person at your bank or use telephone banking; however, it is important to note that financial institutions do not accept Home Owner Grant applications,” Dawson added.
People are still able to pay taxes in person, though the process will look a little different. City Hall will reopen to the public on Monday, June 8, however the hours of 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. will be reserved for seniors or people at higher risk of contracting the virus. Residents can expect longer wait times and limited service levels due to reduced staffing levels and increased cleaning and disinfecting procedures.
To sign up for e-billing in the future, go here and for more information on taxes, grants or deferment, go online here.
