PSTC/FIBC Tax Credits: Queue wait times

Motion Picture Tax Credit application standard is to process applications within 120 days from the date we receive a complete application. Incomplete applications, outstanding information or missing documents can delay the issuing of certificates.

An application can take up to six months—that is, from the day it is submitted to the day Creative BC issues the certificate. The amount of time it takes for an application to be processed can vary depending on several factors, including the type of application it is, the level of complexity of the file, or any unforeseen obstacles that come up during an analyst’s review.

Month 1
Application is submitted and a “fee due” email is issued.
Fee is received and processed, and the file is moved to the queue.

Months 2-3
Pre-Assessment begins; (an analyst verifies that all necessary documents have been submitted).

Months 4-5
First Review begins; (first business analyst does a thorough review of the application and follows up with the applicant regarding any missing information or discrepancies).

Months 5-6:
Second Review begins; (a senior business analyst does a final review of the file and approves it for certification).
The certificate is created, handed off for signatures, and sent to the applicant.

For updates on queue position, time estimates for first review, please contact Creative BC.

Shannon Hunt
Coordinator, Motion Picture Tax Credits
shunt(at)creativebc.com

This post is intended as a general overview. It is not exhaustive and should not be relied upon to determine eligibility or the final amount of an anticipated tax credit. In case of any discrepancies between this post and the Income Tax Act (BC) and Regulations (the “Act”), the provisions of the Act prevail.