Will BBMP's One-Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme Deadline Be Extended? Here's How You Can Pay Property Tax Online

With the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike's (BBMP) One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for property tax defaulters set to end on November 30, the question arises: will the scheme be extended again?

Despite being operational since February and offering significant relief by waiving compounding interest and reducing penalties by 50%, the scheme has not achieved its collection target.

Response Falls Short of Expectations
Out of 3.95 lakh property tax defaulters, only about 2 lakh have utilized the scheme so far, according to a report in The Hindu. The BBMP officials have told the daily that the response has been underwhelming. According to Special Commissioner (Revenue) Munish Moudgil, the civic body has collected approximately Rs 670 crore and about Rs 550 crore is yet to be collected. While over half the arrears have been cleared, payments have slowed significantly in recent days.

Moudgil has urged defaulters to settle their dues by Saturday to avoid hefty penalties and interest that could increase their liabilities by up to three to four times.

Multiple Extensions and Outreach Efforts
Initially launched with a July deadline, the OTS scheme was extended twice-first to the end of September and then to November 30-following public demand. To encourage participation, the BBMP conducted door-to-door campaigns, educating property owners about the scheme's benefits.

However, with time running out and many defaulters yet to make payments, calls for another extension are growing.

Why the OTS Scheme Matters
The OTS scheme has been a relief for property owners, allowing them to clear arrears without the burden of steep interest and penalties. Once the scheme ends, defaulters will face the full brunt of fines, making the financial impact significantly heavier.

How to Pay BBMP Property Tax: A Step-by-Step Guide
To pay your BBMP property tax, you'll need to select one of six forms based on your property's details. Here's a breakdown of each form and how to complete your payment online.

Tax Forms Overview
Form I: For properties with a Property Identification Number (PID). This unique identifier includes details such as the property's address, ward, and plot number.

Form II: For properties without a PID but with a khata number, linked to the khata certificate containing key property details.

Form III: For properties without both a PID and a khata number.

Form IV: To be used when there are no changes or alterations to the property's details.

Form V (Blue Form): For properties with modifications (e.g., addition of a new floor or change in use from residential to non-residential).

Form VI: For properties that are exempt from property tax.

Steps to Pay BBMP Property Tax Online

Step 1: Visit the official BBMP property tax portal.
Navigate to the BBMP website to begin the payment process.

Step 2: Enter your property details.
Provide the Application Number, PID Number, or Renewal Application Number, along with the Owner's Name, and click on 'Retrieve' to display your property details.

Step 3: Verify property details.
Check that the displayed details are accurate. If there are no updates required, proceed with Form IV.

Step 4: Make modifications if needed.
For changes in property information-such as built-up area, usage, or occupancy-select the appropriate box and proceed with Form V.

Step 5: Confirm and choose payment options.
Review the pre-filled information for accuracy. You can pay the full amount or opt for instalments via challan or online payment.

Step 6: Complete your payment.
For online payment, select a preferred method-debit card, credit card, or net banking. Complete the transaction through the secure payment gateway.

Step 7: Access your receipt.
After successful payment, a receipt number will be generated. You can view, print, or download the receipt from the portal after 24 hours.