Time to pay the man

Photo: Castanet Staff - File Photo

Municipal tax time is approaching.

The City of Kelowna reminds homeowners property taxes must be paid by midnight July 2.

“Taxes can be paid through your bank as a bill payment,” says Lynn Walter, revenue manager for the city. “Do it online, by telephone or in person. We recommend these options for payment because it’s quick and easy and you can avoid time-consuming lineups at City Hall.” 

Other payment options include drop boxes, mail or in person. Property taxes can be paid by cash, cheque, money order or debit card.

If paying at your bank, remember to bring your tax notice. If you apply for the provincial homeowner grant at your bank, be sure it accepts grant applications on the city’s behalf. If it doesn't, you can apply for your grant at kelowna.ca/propertytax or fill out and return the grant application at the bottom of your tax notice by July 2.

City Hall will be closed for Canada Day, however, deposit boxes are available 24/7 at the Water Street entrance to City Hall and the Doyle Avenue parking lot entrance.

There is an additional drop box located at Parkinson Rec Centre that is available during regular business hours. Deposit boxes are emptied daily.

Current taxes that remain outstanding after July 2 are subject to a five per cent late payment penalty. A second five per cent penalty is applied to outstanding taxes on Aug. 5. Penalties are provincially legislated under the Community Charter and are not discretionary.

“Don’t forget to apply for the provincial homeowner grant to save on your taxes every year,” says Walter. “Eligible property owners under 65 can save up to $770 on their bill.”