Casting a Wider Net: Updating the Eligibility Requirements for Property Tax, Water and Solid Waste Relief Programs

An applicant must apply annually and can select all available programs through one application. Each program has its own eligibility criteria; however, there are some requirements common among all programs including: -Property tax and utility accounts must not be in arrears. -Applicant must have owned or occupied the property as their principal residence for one year or more before August 31 of the year in which the application is made. -Combined household income is based on the total income of all listed owners who live at the property, including spouses. -Age requirements must be met by December 31 or the current tax year. -Other criteria exist but are linked to receipt of various federal benefit programs. As of June, 2022, the City's Property Tax, Water and Solid Waste Relief programs provide over $6.2 million in relief to eligible low income seniors and persons with disabilities. This includes about $3.8 million in property tax relief, and approximately $1.2 million in water relief and $1.2 million in solid waste relief and provided to over 7,000 households. According to a report to City Council in June, 2022, "These amounts are identified and budgeted for each year within the non-program tax deficiency account, and within the respective rate supported budgets for Toronto Water and Solid Waste Management Services, respectively."

In the case of Municipal Property Assessment Corporation evaluations for the tax increase cancellation program lowering the home value from $975,000 to $850,000. Criterial for the Water Rebate Program and the Solid Waste Rebate programs would remain the same as the deferral program.