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Property Tax
Property tax is levied annually on real estate properties in Trinidad and Tobago, based on the Annual Rental Value (ARV) of the property and administered by municipal corporations.
Overview & Legal Basis
Property tax in Trinidad and Tobago is administered by the 14 municipal corporations and is based on the Annual Rental Value (ARV) of properties. The tax helps fund local government services and infrastructure development.
Legal Basis: Municipal Corporations Act and various Municipal By-laws
Key Features:
- • Based on Annual Rental Value (ARV) of property
- • Different rates for each municipal corporation
- • Annual assessment and billing
- • Various exemptions and discounts available
- • Multiple payment options with incentives
- • Online payment and inquiry systems
Who Pays Property Tax
Property Owners Subject to Tax:
- • Owners of residential properties
- • Commercial property owners
- • Industrial property owners
- • Vacant land owners
- • Mixed-use property owners
- • Foreign property owners
Property Types Assessed:
- • Single-family homes
- • Apartments and condominiums
- • Commercial buildings and offices
- • Retail and shopping centers
- • Industrial facilities
- • Vacant lots and undeveloped land
Note: Properties valued under $350,000 are generally exempt from property tax. Exemptions and rates vary by municipal corporation.
Municipal Tax Rates
| Municipality | Tax Rate | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Port of Spain | 3.00% | Capital city |
| San Fernando | 2.50% | Industrial capital |
| Arima | 2.25% | Borough |
| Chaguanas | 2.00% | Fastest growing |
| Point Fortin | 2.00% | Borough |
| Diego Martin | 1.75% | Regional corporation |
| San Juan-Laventille | 1.75% | Regional corporation |
| Tunapuna-Piarco | 1.50% | Regional corporation |
Tax Calculation Example:
Property in Port of Spain with ARV of $50,000:
• Annual Rental Value: $50,000
• Municipal Rate: 3.00%
• Annual Property Tax: $50,000 × 3.00% = $1,500
• With 5% early payment discount: $1,425
Assessment Process:
- • Properties assessed based on rental value
- • Assessments updated periodically
- • Property owners can appeal assessments
- • New constructions assessed upon completion
Payment Options & Discounts
| Payment Option | Incentive | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Payment | 5% discount | Full year paid by March 31 |
| Semi-Annual | 2.5% discount | Two payments per year |
| Quarterly | No discount | Four payments per year |
| Monthly | 2% surcharge | Twelve payments per year |
Payment Methods:
- • Online payment through municipal websites
- • Bank branches and ATMs
- • Municipal corporation offices
- • Authorized collection agents
- • Post offices (selected locations)
Exemptions & Discounts
Available Exemptions & Discounts:
Properties valued under $350,000
Senior citizens (65+) - 50% discount
Disabled persons - significant discounts
First-time homeowners - temporary exemptions
Agricultural land in active use
Religious and charitable properties
Government and diplomatic properties
Properties under construction
Senior Citizen Benefits:
- • 50% discount for property owners aged 65 and above
- • Must be primary residence
- • Application required with proof of age
- • Renewal may be required periodically
Disability Discounts:
- • Significant discounts for disabled property owners
- • Medical certification required
- • Varies by municipality and disability level
- • Contact municipal corporation for details
Required Documents
- Property deed or title documents
- Recent property valuation
- Previous property tax receipts
- Proof of ownership
- Building plans (for new construction)
- Occupancy permit
- Survey plan
- Exemption certificates (if applicable)
Important Notes:
- • Keep all property tax receipts for record keeping
- • Property tax clearance may be required for property sales
- • Unpaid taxes may result in liens on property
- • Contact your municipal corporation for specific requirements
Property Tax Quick Facts
Exemption Threshold: Properties under $350,000
Senior Discount: 50% for ages 65+
Early Payment: 5% discount if paid by March 31
Highest Rate: Port of Spain (3.00%)
Assessment: Based on Annual Rental Value
Payment: Multiple options available