Taxation
Property tax is the largest and most important revenue source for municipalities.
The amount of property taxes required for a municipality is the difference between its other non-tax revenues and its expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the amount of property tax that I pay determined?
The amount of tax you pay is calculated based on the following formula: “Assessed value of a property” x “Tax rate”
There are two parts to the tax rate:
- The municipal tax rate, which is set by your municipal governments (Dufferin County and the local municipality that you reside in)
- The education tax rate, which is set by the provincial government
A municipality can set different tax rates for different property classes. The main classes include residential, farm, multi-residential, commercial and industrial.
What is a property assessment?
The property assessment or current value assessment of a parcel is established by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). Dufferin County is not responsible for any aspect of property assessment. To find out the value of your property, to appeal, or for further information on how your assessment is calculated please contact MPAC.
How is your property tax rate calculated?
The tax rate is established annually and is based on budgetary requirements for the local municipality, Dufferin County, and education (as set by the province). The tax rate is expressed as a percentage of a property’s assessed value. Each property class has its own tax rate. The tax rate is multiplied by the assessed value, resulting in the amount of property taxes payable for the year.
How are taxes distributed over property classes?
Ratios are used to distribute taxation across all property classes. Ratios are set annually by the County keeping within ranges of fairness set by the Province.
What relief programs are available to residents?
Owners of residential or farm properties who are low income may qualify for the Tax Relief for Low Income Seniors and Low Income Persons with Disabilities program.
Click here to visit the Low Income Tax Relief Program page for more information.