The leader of the New Democrats in Ontario said on Friday that the New Democrats in Ontario will implement property tax deferrals for seniors if elected next month.

She said that residents aged 55 and older will be eligible for the program, which will allow the province to pay their taxes.

The homeowner then reimburses the province when they sell their home. "We want to see seniors able to afford to stay in their homes longer, so we have a plan to help with property taxes so that seniors who are at a financial crossroads can get this burden off their backs,"

Horwath said this measure will save about $375 monthly for those paying $4,500 in annual taxes.

The program is part of the party's plan to reduce costs for seniors. This plan also includes $1 billion in home care in an effort to keep seniors living at home longer.

Horwath said if a resident dies before paying their deferred taxes, this is handled in their estate as the measure is not a death tax.

And when this situation happens, it will be part of the estate process."

The leader of the New Democratic Party said the proposed program is another tool to help seniors cope with the increasing property values across the province.

Horwath added that the program will allow seniors to use these funds to pay other expenses, especially with rising living costs and inflation.