Posted on 03/19/2015, 10:45 am, by mySteinbach

The province is providing more support to Manitoba seniors by reducing the school taxes seniors pay by doubling the Seniors’ School Tax Rebate. This announcement was made by Finance Minister Greg Dewar.

“We’re committed to making things more affordable for the seniors who have worked so hard to help build our province,” said Minister Dewar. “With the doubling of the Seniors’ School Tax Rebate, seniors will now be able to save up to $1,570 on their property taxes this year.”

“Seniors able to stay in their homes often remain more involved and engaged in their communities,” Healthy Living and Seniors Minister Deanne Crothers said. “Starting mid-May, eligible seniors will be able to apply for this increased rebate that will help make staying in their homes more affordable.”

The Manitoba government will double the Seniors’ School Tax Rebate to $470 from $235. The maximum rebate of $470 is available in 2015, in addition to the basic $700 Education Property Tax Credit and the income-tested $400 Senior’s Education Property Tax Credit top-up, Minister Dewar said. He noted Manitobans are reminded they have until the end of March to apply for the rebate for 2014.

As well today, Minister Dewar announced that he will deliver Budget 2015-16 on April 30.

“Preparation work for the budget is in the final stages, and I can tell all Manitobans that despite the financial pressures caused by major flood damage, we’ll have a budget that will take a balanced approach to providing front-line services,” Minister Dewar said. “We will stay focused on our plan to grow the economy and manage fiscal challenges.”