(Cochrane, AB) – Cochrane welcomes back the Senior Property Tax Rebate Program, offering eligible senior residents’ financial relief on their annual property taxes.
Offered since 2006, the Cochrane-based program assists eligible low-income seniors with their property taxes by providing a rebate of up to $500. Eligible senior residents must be 60+ years of age, own and live in the residence of ownership and only own a maximum of one property. Eligible applicants must meet income guidelines set out by the Alberta Seniors Benefit Program:
- For one owner on title, income must be under $29,630.
- For two owners on title, the combined incomes must be under $48,120.
“This is an iMportant program designed to ensure low-income seniors can maintain housing amidst rising costs,” says Kim Krawec, Manager of FCSS, Town of Cochrane. “Over the past five years we have seen a steady increase in the number of seniors qualifying to access the property tax support program. Between 2021 and 2022 there was a 50% increase in the number of seniors accessing the program.”
With the increase in applicants, FCSS is now requiring all applicants book an appointment with an FCSS staff member and provide a copy of their 2022 Revenue Canada Income Tax Notice of Assessment to confirm eligibility. For more information on the Senior Property Tax Rebate Program, or to book an appointment call FCSS at 403.851.2250.
In addition, seniors 65 years of age and older may be eligible to access additional tax support through the Government of Alberta Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program. The program provides eligible seniors the option to defer all or a portion of their property taxes through a low-interest home equity loan. More information: alberta.ca/seniors-property-tax-deferral-program.aspx, or call 1-877-644-9992.