Property assessments across Manitoba have increased significantly as a result of the 2010 reassessment. Cottage property assessments in particular have increased significantly, due to the exceptionally strong demand for recreational properties. As a result, some cottage owners may see property tax (municipal and school) increases in 2010, as their assessments are increasing more than all other types of properties.

In 2010, the Province of Manitoba is offering a new two-year provincially-delivered and financed property tax deferral program for eligible cottage owners. Cottage owners may choose to defer all or a portion of their property tax increase, from 2009 to 2010.

The Department of Finance, Tax Assistance Office (TAO), is administering the new cottage tax deferral program. Eligible property owners may request a deferral of the property tax increase by completing and submitting an application to the Province of Manitoba no later then the due date on the cottage property tax statement.

Information requirements from municipalities will be very minimal. By submitting an application, the owners authorize the municipalities to release information concerning property taxes.  Upon approval of an application, TAO will pay the deferred tax amount directly to the municipality.

Information on the Cottage Property Tax Increase Deferral program, including eligibility requirements and an application form, is available online at:

www.gov.mb.ca/finance/tao/cottage.html