Northern Allowance

Community differences in cost of living and travel are offset by a northern allowance.  This allowance is taxable.  The allowance is paid every other week.  The bi-weekly amount is calculated by dividing the annual allowance by 26.  The rate you are paid is based on your community of employment.

The annual northern allowance rates are as follows, effective April 1, 2021:

Click here to find a listing of the current Northern Allowance rates.

The Northern Allowance methodology will be updated on a yearly basis and the updated Northern Allowance Rates will be implemented on April 1 of each year.  Effective April 1, 2018, the Northern Allowance base rate for Yellowknife will be amended to $3,700.

Bilingual Allowance

If you are required by the Government to use two or more of the official languages in your position, you are provided with a bilingual allowance of $1,200 per year.  This does not apply to employees assigned the duties of translation and interpretation in their job descriptions.  An examination of language ability may be required.

The official languages of the Northwest Territories are:

The bilingual allowance is taxable.

The allowance is paid every other week. The bi-weekly amount is calculated by dividing the annual allowance by 26.