Questions and Answers
Q- I didn’t receive a copy of the booklet, where can I obtain a copy?
A- Copies have been sent to the Customer Service Centres and Library branches thoughout HRM.
Q- Why was this booklet created?
A- HRM staff and council wanted to produce a document that illustrated to tax payers in HRM where their municipal tax dollars were spent, the importance of the day-to-day services municipal government provides, and the financial challenges faced by municipal government. As a result “How your Municipal Tax Dollars Are Spent: A report to the citizens of Halifax Regional Municipality” was created to help answer taxpayers’ questions about the municipal property tax system.
Q- How are taxes collected?
A- Municipal taxes are collected through property tax bills that are issued to property owners in HRM. Twice a year property owners receive property tax bills, usually sent in March and September, and are due in respectively in April and October. The amount of individual tax bills differs depending on the assessed value of the property (as determined by the province), the tax rate (as determined by the municipality), and any other area rates that might apply. For more information on tax collection or paying your property tax bills, please see “Payment Options” or “FAQ on Assessment and Tax Notices”
Q-Why are some tax rates higher than others?
A- HRM has three tax rates for residential property: the rural (base) general tax rate, the suburban general tax rate, and the urban general tax rate. These tax rates reflect the variation in services provided by the municipal government in these areas; for example, the rural (base) general tax rate is lower because rural areas do not typically pay for transit or sidewalks. The differing tax rates are set to reflect the different level of services provided in areas throughout HRM. See "three tax rates" for more information.
Q-What if I don’t use some of the services within my district? Do I still have to pay for them in my taxes?
A- Yes. Many of the services paid for through property taxes are services that benefit the community as a whole (i.e. police, fire services, libraries). Even if you feel you do not use these services on a day-to-day basis, they still contribute to making your community safer, and a more enjoyable place to live; something that benefits all people living in the community.
Q-Can I be exempt from certain taxes if I don’t use a particular service?
A- No, you cannot be exempted from paying for services that are funded through the general tax rates. The services provided under the general tax rate are services that provide overall benefit to the community. Because these services help make a community safer and more enjoyable place to live, everyone shares in the cost of the service provision. In addition, under the current Municipal Government Act, HRM does not have the ability to exempt taxpayers from paying for services included under the general rate.
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