Press Releases

Chilliwack, BC: In order to further assist homeowners who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, this year, property tax payments for all property classes made by September 30, 2020 will not be subject to late payment penalties.

The City of Chilliwack is governed by provincial legislation, under the Community Charter, and while the Provincial Government has not announced an extension to the July 2, 2020 property tax due date, interim legislation changes have authorized municipalities to postpone the late payment penalty date for commercial property classes. Under this change, commercial property tax payments made by September 30, 2020 will not be subject to late payment penalties.

In order to ensure equal relief opportunity is afforded to all property taxpayers in Chilliwack, City Council has approved a measure that will extend the late payment penalty postponement date to all property classes. This ensures similar support is accessible to residential homeowners that may have been negatively affected by COVID-19.

“We are continuing to look for creative ways to help Chilliwack residents who need it,” said Mayor Popove. “These are challenging times for many, and supporting our residents within our scope as a municipality is a priority for Council.”

Council approved this latest financial relief measure at the May 5, 2020 Regular Meeting of Council. Additional financial relief measures approved by Council include waiving late fees for unpaid utility bills and implementing a utility bill relief program that provides three months of credit on water and sewer fees to eligible residents.

To ensure the safety of residents and City staff, taxpayers are encouraged to pay property taxes through their financial institution’s online banking system, mailing a cheque, or via the drop box located at the main entrance of City Hall. Home owner grants can also be claimed online at mychilliwack.com. For additional information, contact the Property Tax Department at [email protected] or 604.792.9498.

While the extended penalty date provides a relief option for those negatively affected by COVID-19, the property tax due date remains July 2, 2020 and taxpayers that are able to pay by the due date are encouraged to do so.