Vacant Unit Tax and Property Tax Bills UPDATE

My Office is Here to Help: Navigating Recent Challenges & Keeping You Informed

Dear Residents,

We understand that recent events have presented some challenges, and we want to assure you that our office is committed to supporting you and keeping you informed about the City's actions.

Addressing Mail Delivery Delays (Property Tax & VUT Notices)

Many of you have called or emailed expressing concern about delayed mail delivery of property tax bills and Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) notices. Please know that the City mailed these on February 7th, as scheduled. However, Canada Post delays, likely backlog from the recent Postal Strike, have impacted delivery times.

• Property Tax Deadline Extension: The property tax instalment has been extended and is now due on March 31, 2025 without late penalty. The second instalment remains due on April 30, 2025 and late fees will apply.

  
  

Navigating High Call Volumes & Customer Service Delays

The City acknowledges the increased call volumes and longer wait times you've experienced when contacting City services. The City is actively working to address these issues and improve your experience.

Factors Contributing to Increased Call Volumes (City):

Recently, we have experienced a number of concurrent events that have caused increased call volumes:

• Significant Weather Event

• Measles Outbreak

• Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) inquiries

• Interim Property Bills (delayed delivery)

• Provincial Election

  
  

City's Actions to Improve Response Times:

• Adjusting staff levels to optimize phone capacity.

• Expanding digital communication and directing residents to alternative channels.

• Promoting self-service options:

  • VUT: Visit www.hamilton.ca/vacantunittax

  • Property Tax: Visit www.hamilton.ca/tax

  • Provincial Election: Visit www.elections.on.ca

• Providing real-time wait-time information on phone lines.

• Delivering timely updates via social media.

• Implementing further updates to the VUT and Interim Property Tax Bills information.

The City’s Customer Contact Centre (546-CITY) prioritizes emergency services, and staff are continuously monitoring the situation. The City will keep you updated through program area leads.

Submitting Your VUT Declaration: Multiple Options Available

We understand the frustration of high call volumes. Here's how to submit your VUT declaration (City options):

• Voicemail: Leave a voicemail with your roll number and access code.

• Online: If you encounter a "dead-end" page, click "Sign In" at the top. For slow buffering, try off-peak hours.

• Paper Forms: Available at Municipal Service Centres (MSCs), libraries, and polling locations (closest MSC: 4280 Binbrook Road).

Important: Primary Residence Declaration Required

Remember, all residential property owners, including those living in their primary residence, must submit a VUT declaration. The City is working to clarify this in future communications.

Out of Town? No Roll Number or Access Code? No Problem

Please call the Vacant Unit Tax hotline 905-546-2573 or email vacantunittax@hamilton.ca and they can assist you by comparing provided information to property title. Please be aware call volumes are high, so try to call at off-peak hours.

Clarifying Fees & Penalties: Setting the Record Straight

• Waived Late Fees for VUT in 2025: Already planned by the city, and they have apologized for the lack of clear communication.

• $10,000 Fine: Applies only to fraudulent declarations, not late submissions. The City is working to improve their messaging on this.

Understanding the VUT: Increasing Housing Supply

The VUT aims to increase housing supply, not necessarily to make housing more affordable. The City acknowledges that their initial messaging could have been clearer and is working to correct this.

What You Can Do Now:

• Submit your VUT declaration online, by phone, or in person, following the City’s instructions.

• Visit the City's website for the latest information.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as the City works through these challenges. Please don't hesitate to contact my office if you require further assistance. We are here to support you and my team is happy to assist!