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How to Apply for the Caregiver Water Rate Exemption in Bishop’s Falls: A Step-by-Step Guide for Property Owners in Canada

The Caregiver Water Rate Exemption offered by the Town of Bishop’s Falls provides financial relief to property owners who have a caregiver or family member residing in their home. This exemption is designed to reduce the water rate burden for those providing care to seniors or family members in need. In this guide, you will learn how to correctly complete the Caregiver Water Rate Exemption application form, understand the eligibility criteria, and navigate the application process smoothly.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Understand the Purpose of the Exemption

The Caregiver Water Rate Exemption is part of the Town of Bishop’s Falls Municipal Operating Budget Tax Schedule and Policy. It aims to support homeowners who are caring for a family member, especially seniors, by offering a reduction or exemption from water rates for the unit occupied by the caregiver or the person being cared for.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Before starting the application, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Verification of Relationship: This can be a birth certificate that proves the relationship between the property owner and the person living in the unit.
• Verification of Age: If the exemption is based on seniority, provide a seniors card or another valid ID that confirms the age of the person residing in the unit.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Section 1: Property Owner Information

• Name of Property Owner (Unit 1): Enter the full name of the property owner, who is referred to as Unit 1 in the application.
• Address: Provide the complete address of the property where the exemption is being requested.
• Telephone No.: Enter a valid contact number where the property owner can be reached.

Section 2: Unit Information

• Units Occupied by:
  • Unit 1 (Property owner): Confirm that the property owner occupies Unit 1.
  • Unit 2: Specify who occupies Unit 2 if applicable.
• Unit Requested for Exemption: Indicate which unit is being requested for the exemption.

Section 3: Relationship Verification

• Relationship to Owner: Describe the relationship of the occupant in the unit for which the exemption is requested (e.g., parent, grandparent).
• Verification of Relationship: Attach the birth certificate or another document that verifies this relationship.
• Verification of Age: Attach a seniors card or other relevant documentation that confirms the age of the person if the exemption is based on seniority.

Section 4: Application Status and Approval

• Application Status: Leave this section blank for official use. It will be filled out by the council after the review.
• Council Approval: This will be completed by the authorized municipal official after the application is reviewed.

Step 4: Submit the Application

• Signature of Applicant: Ensure that the property owner signs the application form in the designated area.
• Submission: Submit the completed application form along with the required documents to the Town of Bishop’s Falls. You can contact the town office at 709-258-6581 or via email at info@bishopsfalls.ca for further assistance.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Ensure Accuracy: Double-check that all sections of the form are completed accurately to avoid delays in processing your application.
• Documentation: Make sure that all required verification documents are attached. Incomplete applications may be rejected.

FAQ Section:

Q1: Who qualifies for the Caregiver Water Rate Exemption? The exemption is available to property owners in Bishop’s Falls who have a caregiver or a senior family member residing in a separate unit on their property.

Q2: What documents do I need to submit with the application? You need to submit proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate) and proof of age (e.g., seniors card) along with the completed application form.

Q3: How long does it take to process the application? The processing time may vary. The council will review your application and provide a decision. You can contact the town office for updates.

Q4: What happens if my application is rejected? If your application is rejected, the reasons will be stated in the application status section. You may need to provide additional information or correct any errors before resubmitting.

Q5: Where can I find more information about the Municipal Operating Budget Tax Schedule and Policy? You can view the policy online at the Town of Bishop’s Falls website or contact the town office for more details.