The City of Vancouver has pushed the deadline for both residential and commercial property taxes back by more than two months to help homeowners and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new tax payment deadline is September 30, 2020, moved from July 3.

The deferral was approved by city council this week. The decision follows measures announced by the province on April 16, including a mandated delay in the penalty date for commercial tax payers to October 1, 2020, along with a reduction in school tax payments for these property owners (which includes industrial, business, recreation, and non-profit properties).

Under the Vancouver Charter, Vancouver’s tax payment and penalty dates must be aligned; under the Community Charter, some municipalities may choose to maintain the existing July payment date while extending their penalty dates.

“COVID-19 has put a lot of strain on the finances of residents and business owners as well as the city itself. That’s why I’m glad council supported offering a delayed property tax payment deadline,” said Mayor Kennedy Stewart. “Combined with a business tax cut made possible by lower provincial school taxes, these measures will help reduce financial stress while helping us maintain essential public services we all need to help propel Vancouver into recovery.”

Vancouver’s property tax statements for 2020 will be mailed out by June and taxes can be paid at any time once the statement has been received. Late payment penalties will take effect on October 1 for any property taxes not paid by September 30.