RELEASE — The City of Kingston is offering property tax relief – and is working with other levels of government to offer additional forms of financial relief to businesses and residents experiencing financial pressures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
City offers property tax relief
Concerned about paying your property tax bill? Call the City at 613-546-0000 to discuss payment options and financial assistance programs. Property taxes ensure that the City can continue to provide essential services.
Unlike many municipalities, the City does not have a pending interim tax due date. However, recognizing that many are experiencing financial pressures, the City will adopt the following measures to provide immediate assistance to businesses and residents:
To ease the financial burden for taxpayers, the City will waive the April 1 and May 1 monthly penalty and interest on all 2020 interim arrears. This will be done automatically; there is no need for taxpayers to apply for this relief.
Taxpayers who currently have a pre-authorized 10-month payment plan (PAP), are encouraged to continue these payment plans where possible. To provide immediate assistance with upcoming payment due dates, the City will, upon request, defer the April 1 and May 1 installments to Nov. 1 and Dec.1. Taxpayers on the PAP plan will need to request this deferral option by email to tax@cityofkingston.ca by end of day Friday, March 27 in order to amend existing agreements for the April 1 installment.
While the City’s Payment Centre locations remain closed, residents are encouraged to make payments using one of the following means:
- Through online banking.
- Through your financial institution.
- Using our drop boxes at 1211 John Counter Blvd. or at City Hall’s Market Street entrance.
- For taxation or other payments by mail, send a cheque to: City of Kingston – Taxation PO Box 640, Kingston, ON, K7L 4X1.
The City will continue to review options for property tax relief that will support taxpayers during this challenging time, including options for alternative payment plans for the upcoming final property tax billing in June.
Ontario to commit additional financial support
The City has learned the Province of Ontario will provide additional financial assistance to people who have been impacted by COVID-19. An announcement is expected later today that will contain timelines and additional details on the following:
- An emergency assistance program that will support people who are waiting to receive Employment Insurance.
- Additional funding for Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program clients.
- On-going support for food programs and homelessness.
Stay up-to-date with the City’s COVID-19 changes. Find answers to your COVID-19 questions from KFL&A Public Health.
Release: City of Kingston
Photo (composite): 401kcalculator (cc) & Pixabay (cc)
