Property Tax Deferment

The British Columbia Property Tax Deferment Program is a loan program. It allows you to defer your annual property taxes on your home if you meet certain criteria.

Property Tax Deferment programs are run by the Province of BC. For a complete explanation of the program, eligibility requirements and how to apply, please see the Province of BC's website:

Property Tax Deferment Program

You must pay your net City user fees (water, sewer and solid waste), if applicable, before the due date and before completing a deferment application. You also must complete the Home Owner Grant Application before you make a deferment application.

There are two tax deferment programs available.

General Eligibility

To be eligible for either program, you must be the following criteria:

  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
  • Be a registered owner of the property.
  • Have lived in B.C. for at least one year prior to applying.
  • Have paid property taxes for the residence to a municipality or the province.
  • Have paid all previous years' property taxes, utility user fees, penalties and interest.

Tax Deferment for Homeowners

In addition to the general eligibility requirements, to qualify for this program you must be one of the following:

  • 55 or older during the current year
  • A surviving spouse of any age
  • A person with disabilities

You also must meet the property and equity criteria:

  • Have a minimum equity of 25% in your home based on assessed values as determined by BC Assessment.
  • The property is your principal residence (where you conduct your daily activities).

Tax Deferment for Homeowners Support Children

In addition to the general eligibility requirements, you must be financially supporting a dependent child. Criteria include:

  • They are under the age of 18.
  • They live with you full-time, or part-time under shared custody, or you pay support for the child, or you are responsible for fees and living costs if they are attending school.

You also must meet the property and equity criteria:

  • Have, and maintain, a minimum equity of 15% of the current BC Assessment value.
  • The property is your principal residence (where you conduct your daily activities).