Property owners in arrears urged to utilise relief mechanisms

Property owners who are facing difficulties paying their property taxes are being reminded that relief mechanisms are available under special circumstances.

Property tax payments for the 2018-19 fiscal year are due and the Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) is advising that payments can be made in half-yearly installments on April 1 and October 1 or in quarterly installments on April 1, July 1, October 1, and January 1.

Those who cannot pay may seek any one of three relief mechanisms:

Statutory Relief:

This is granted in cases where the valuation, based on the potential use of the land, is higher than the current use.  For example; many persons own property and live in an area, which was originally classified as residential but has now become commercial. In such a case, the valuation will reflect the potential of the highest and best use of the land for offices or shops.

Agricultural De-rating:

This is granted for a period of up to three years for land used primarily for agriculture. These applications should be sent to the Land Taxation Relief Board.

Special Discretionary Relief:

This is granted by Ministry of Finance in cases of hardship.  For example; pensioners and other persons with fixed income as well as the aged and persons with disabilities.  These applications should be sent to the Parish Review Committee through the local authorities.  The Committee will make recommendations to the Ministry of   Finance and is applicable for one year only.

Persons may access these relief forms by visiting any Tax Office or the Property Tax Hub at www.jamaicatax.gov.jm.

Property Owners in arrears for previous years are cautioned that action will be taken against them for overdue amounts.

Property owners are therefore advised to pay all outstanding amounts or to visit the nearest tax office to make an arrangement to pay, if they are experiencing a difficulty paying, to avoid compliance action.

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