Through the Property Tax and Energy Cost Rebates program, the Ontario government is providing a total of $300 million in property tax and utility cost rebates, in the form of grants, to eligible businesses effected by COVID-19 provincial health restrictions. Such rebates will include municipal and education property taxes and energy costs (including electricity, natural gas, propane or heating oil, where applicable). The grants will cover the period during which the targeted public health restrictions are in effect and will be merged with federal support provided through the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy.
Restaurants and bars; gyms, facilities for indoor sports and recreational fitness activities; performing arts and cinemas; bingo halls, gaming establishments, casinos, conference and convention centres; community centres, multi-purpose facilities and museums; personal care services (but no oxygen bars); racing venues; meeting or event space; and in-person teaching and instruction businesses effected by being moved back into Stage 2 health restrictions and those in the “Control’ or “Lockdown” category moving forward (currently Ottawa, Peel, Toronto and York Region) will qualify for support.
Applicants are required to provide proof of costs (i.e. tax and energy bills) and information regarding loss of revenue, consistent with the information provided in your Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy application. If you have questions pertaining to the Ontario tax and utility rebates, you may contact the “Stop the Spread” Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.
This blog post was written by Jade Renaud, a member of the Business Law team. Jade can be reached at 613-369-0373 or at jade.renaud@mannlawyers.com.
