A Guide on How to Pay Property Tax as a Homeowner in Edmonton
As a homeowner in Edmonton, some of your earliest and most pressing questions might be: “How do I pay property tax in Edmonton?”
Whether it’s your first home, your first investment property in the city, or simply confused about what payment options exist, we’re going to put it all into perspective for you and explain everything there is to know about property taxes.
Now, let’s get into some easy step-by-step information.
What is Property Tax in Edmonton?
Property taxes are an annual charge paid by Edmonton residential property owners to support vital city services such as:
- Road maintenance
- LRT and Public Transport
- Police and Fire Services
- Parks and Recreation Facilities
- Waste Management
- Schools (education tax component)
Property taxes are applicable to all house owners, and these include single-family homes, condos, townhouses, and rental properties.
How Is Property Tax Calculated?
There are two components of Edmonton property taxes:
- Assessed value of your dwelling (set by The City of Edmonton)
- The yearly rate of taxation (determined by City Council and the Province on behalf of the school tax amount)
Once a year, your Property Assessment Notice will be mailed to you. It may be higher or lower based on market changes and city budgets.
How To Pay Property Tax (All Payment Options Available)
There are convenient ways for people living in Edmonton to pay their property taxes. Below is a brief description so you can select what suits you best.
- Pay Property Taxes via the MPP Program
The easiest method of staying on track is with the Monthly Payment Plan or MPP.
How it works:
- Your yearly property taxes are paid as 12 equal monthly payments
- Funds will be automatically deducted from your bank account
- No more worries about deadlines and lump sum payments
- You may join at any time.
It is an excellent option for budgeting.
The ideal time to join the MPP is during the fall. If you sign up for the MPP before December 15, you can avoid a service fee and start your payments in January.
- Pay Through Your Bank (Online or In-Person)
The reason why most people who own homes in Edmonton have opted for this option is because it’s fast and easy.
You can pay using:
- Online Banking
- Mobile Banking App
- Telephone Banking
- Visiting your local bank branch
How to set it up:
- Search for “City of Edmonton – Property Tax” as a payee
- Please enter your 13-digit roll number as appearing on your taxation notice
- Pay the entire amount before due date
It is among the quickest methods of ensuring your payment goes through on time.
- Pay via Mailing a Cheque
You can pay via money order or check sent to the City of Edmonton.
- Mention your roll number on the cheque
- Send mail early, to prevent delay
- No postmarks will be accepted – payment needs to be received on or before the deadline
- Pay at City Hall (In Person)
You can also make payments at Edmonton City Hall using:
- Cheque
- Debit
- Money order
Cash may be restricted based on rules at service counters.
- Pay Through Your Mortgage Lender
If your lender pays your property taxes on your behalf, they will:
- Include the amount of tax on your monthly mortgage payment
- Pay the City directly
- Send you a statement confirming payment
It’s an excellent option for first-time buyers who would like to have everything packaged together.
When Is Property Tax Due in Edmonton?
Property taxes in Edmonton are due at the end of June every year (exact dates vary slightly).
If you are NOT enrolled with the MPP program, then you have to pay the full amount due on the due date.
What About Late Payments?
All late payments will be subject to a penalty charge, and these penalties will increase with time. Edmonton imposes monthly penalties so paying on time is very important.
Avoiding penalties is simple: Pay the entire amount due by due date, or join the MPP program anytime.
Conclusion
Paying your property taxes in Edmonton doesn’t have to be a headache. You have several ways to pay your property taxes, including online banking, mortgage withdrawals, MPP, and making your payment in-person.
As a first-time homeowner, or if you find yourself overwhelmed with property taxes, assessments, and budgeting for your property, Team Sethi is here at your service.
