Homeowner Grant Program in BC Gives Tax Relief

Along with skyrocketing property and home prices in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, property taxes have risen in lockstep. Annual property tax bills now amount to a substantial sum of money in many cities and municipalities in the region. One relief program that new/er home owners may be unfamiliar with is the provincial homeowner grant program. The annual deadline to apply is fast-approaching.

The homeowner grant program in British Columbia (BC) is a provincial initiative designed to provide financial relief to eligible homeowners by reducing their property tax burden. Here are the key features of the homeowner grant program in BC:

1. Eligibility: To qualify for the homeowner grant, you must meet certain criteria, including being a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, being a resident of BC, and owning and occupying the home as your principal residence. There are different grant categories based on age and disability status.

2. Grant Amounts: The homeowner grant offers different grant amounts based on the assessed value of the property. As of 2023, the grant amounts are as follows:

   - Basic Grant: The basic grant provides up to $570 for properties with an assessed value of up to $2,125,000 in the southern BC region.

   

   - Additional Grant: The additional grant provides an extra $275 to seniors aged 65 and older, veterans, and people with disabilities.

   

   - Additional Grant for Rural Areas: Homeowners in certain rural areas may be eligible for an additional grant of $200.

3. Application Process: Homeowners can apply for the homeowner grant annually when they receive their property tax notice from their municipality. The application process varies depending on whether you pay your property taxes directly to the municipality or through a mortgage lender. The grant application must be submitted by the property tax due date to ensure eligibility.

4. Online Application: Homeowners have the option to apply for the homeowner grant online through the BC government's website. This convenient method allows for a quick and efficient application process.

5. Deadline: The homeowner grant application must be submitted by the property tax due date to avoid penalties. Late applications may still be considered but may be subject to penalties or additional fees.

6. Benefit for Low-Income Seniors and Persons with Disabilities: In addition to the homeowner grant, low-income seniors and persons with disabilities may be eligible for additional property tax relief programs, such as the Low-Income Homeowner's Benefit and the Property Tax Deferment Program. These programs provide further financial assistance for eligible individuals.

It's always recommended to refer to the official government sources or contact the BC Ministry of Finance or your local municipality for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the homeowner grant program in BC.