Jamaicans who find themselves in situations where they cannot pay their property taxes may apply for a special discretionary relief.

This as part of the local government’s efforts to work with people who may have challenges meeting their property tax obligations.

Manager of revenue enhancement and resource mobilisation at the local government ministry Calvert Thomas says a committee is in place to review the applications submitted and determine the level of relief to be provided.

The committee comprises representatives from Tax Administration Jamaica, the ministry of local government and community development and the local authority- parish councils.

Mr. Thomas says people unable to pay their property taxes should submit their applications either to the local authority or to the tax office in their parish.

Mr. Thomas states that in addition to the discretionary relief for people not able to pay their property taxes, a 50 per cent relief for a maximum of three years is provided to those using land for agricultural production.

People who live within a commercial area and whose properties were valued at a commercial rate may also apply for a statutory relief from the authorities.

Property taxes are due on April 1 each year, but individuals may choose to pay in half-yearly installments or quarterly at tax offices island wide or via the TAJ online portal.