City Council has approved changes to the Elderly Property Tax Assistance Credit, making the eligibility criteria consistent with the existing Low-Income Utility Rebate and raising the rebate amount available for qualified homeowners. The changes will simplify the application process and help more seniors and low-income earners stay in their homes.

Beginning in 2024, the Elderly Tax Assistance Credit will be renamed the Low-Income Tax Rebate and will require that homeowners:

• Be receiving social assistance within the year of application from one of the following:
  •  Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
  • Ontario Works Social Assistance
  • Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
• Be a resident of the City of Timmins
• Occupy a single-family dwelling in the City of Timmins on which municipal property taxes or utilities have been levied
• Be assessed as the owner of the residential property for the entire current year of application

Council also voted to increase the rebate from $300 to $350 effective January 01, 2024. This is the first tax rebate increase since 2016. Eligible homeowners will be able to apply for both the Low-Income Tax Rebate and Low-Income Utility Rebate once per year.

“The cost of living was a common concern brought up at our recent public ward meetings across the city. Inflationary changes are making it difficult for Canadians to afford basic necessities. Council is committed to providing relief where and when we can. You have seen this strategy rolled out in recreation with free family and senior swims, and now, through a streamlined property tax and utility rebate program. As we head into the 2024 budget process, we are focused on bringing more value for the tax dollar. – Mayor Michelle Boileau


“The City’s rebate programs continue to be successful, but the Tax Department has found that the inconsistency in criteria between the existing Elderly Property Tax Assistance Credit and Low-Income Utility Rebate was causing some confusion for residents applying for credits. These changes will streamline the process and offer relief to more seniors and low-income earners. We want to make it simple and straightforward for homeowners to get the help they need.” – Natalie Moore, Director of Finance & Treasurer

In 2023, the City of Timmins has issued $66,330 in tax rebates and $28,700 in utility rebates. Homeowners can still apply for this calendar year before December 31, 2023. Information and applications can be found online at www.timmins.ca.