Information for legal professionals on filing a property transfer tax return

Effective December 14, 2020, legal professionals must file property transfer tax using the web-based property transfer tax return through the Land Title and Survey Authority of B.C. (LTSA). The property transfer tax PDF forms will no longer be accepted.

All property transfers, including transfers subject to the further 2% tax on residential properties and the additional property transfer tax, can be completed using the web-based return. When your filing is complete, the tax return will show the total property transfer tax owing or exempt and a breakdown of the tax rates.

For more details on what information you’ll need to complete the web-based return, refer to the property transfer tax return guide.

On this page, you’ll find information about:

• Transition information
• Applying for a refund

Transition

Version 37 returns signed before January 1, 2025, will be accepted until January 20, 2025 (11:59 pm, January 19, 2025), and will automatically transition to version 38. If a previous version 37 was not electronically signed before January 1, 2025, a new return is required for submission.

The new version (V 38) will introduce:

• Form enhancements for the purpose-built rental legislation, effective January 1, 2025
• New form field for "exemption 50, reserve lands" including shíshálh Lands and Westbank Lands
• Requirement for supporting documentation for transferees with a temporary SIN
• New help content, including updated information on penalties

Refunds

To apply for a refund, email your refund request and any relevant documentation to PTTENQ@gov.bc.ca.

If you are eligible for a refund, a cheque will be issued. We cannot do direct deposits into your bank account.