RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication

Jurisdiction: Canada | Province or State: British Columbia

What is an RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication?

RTB-59 is the form you use to ask the Residential Tenancy Branch to keep a monetary order off its public listings. It is an administrative application. It does not change your rights or obligations under the order. It only deals with whether the order appears in the Branch’s public database.

“Monetary order” means the written order for money issued at the end of a tenancy dispute. For example, a landlord may win an order for unpaid rent. A tenant may win an order for a repair cost or for a deposit refund. The Branch normally publishes monetary orders. That is part of transparency and public access to decisions.

RTB-59 lets you request an exemption from publication. You can ask the Branch not to publish the order. You can also ask for a partial exemption. For example, you can ask to publish the order with personal details removed. You must give reasons and evidence. The Branch weighs your privacy and safety against the public interest in access.

Who typically uses this form?

Both tenants and landlords use it. You may also use it if you are an agent who represents a party. You might be a property manager, a legal advocate, or a family member with written authority. Businesses that are landlords sometimes use it too, especially where orders include sensitive business details.

Why would you need this form?

You use RTB-59 when publication would cause real harm that outweighs the public benefit of access. You may face safety risks, harassment, or identity theft. You may have a court protection order or a police file due to threats. The order may contain sensitive personal or medical information. You may be a vulnerable party or a minor. You may be a survivor of family violence. You may hold a high-risk role that increases your exposure to harm.

Typical usage scenarios

• You are a tenant who left an abusive partner. Publication could expose your current location or name change. You ask for a full exemption to reduce risk.
• You are a landlord with a stalking issue tied to your property address. Publication could fuel harassment. You seek to remove your name and address.
• You are a tenant whose order includes detailed bank account information in the evidence. You ask the Branch to withhold the order or redact sensitive details.
• You are a survivor whose medical details were discussed at the hearing. You request that the Branch not publish those details in any form.
• You are a small business landlord. The order includes margins and trade terms submitted as exhibits. You ask to keep those details out of the public domain.
• You are a teacher, nurse, or public servant who has faced targeted harassment. You ask to keep your name off the public listing to reduce risk.

RTB-59 is not a tool to hide legitimate debts or to clean up your online presence. The Branch will not grant exemptions for mere embarrassment. You must show a specific and significant privacy or safety risk. You should support your claim with documents. The Branch can grant full or partial relief, or deny the request.

When Would You Use an RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication?

You use RTB-59 after the Branch issues a monetary order in your case. You can apply right away upon receiving the order. Early action helps because publication often happens soon after issuance. If your order is already posted, you can still apply. The Branch can remove an order from its site or replace it with a redacted version. Removal may not erase copies already captured elsewhere. The Branch controls its own system, not third-party sites.

As a tenant, you use this form when the published order would reveal details that put you at risk. That might include your legal name, a former or current address, or a pattern of movements. If you have a protection order, police file number, or safety plan, include it. If you have a new legal name or confidential address, state that. If you are a survivor of family violence, explain how the publication would raise the risk of future harm.

As a landlord, you use RTB-59 if publication would invite harassment or stalking. It may also be relevant if the order contains confidential business data. For example, you submitted a ledger or rent roll tied to identifiable tenants. You may request a partial exemption to remove the confidential parts. A complete exemption may be appropriate where your personal safety is at risk.

If you are an agent, you can file on behalf of your client. You must attach written authorization. You should also provide evidence that supports the specific risk. For example, emails with threats, screenshots of doxing attempts, or a workplace incident report.

Some practical timing triggers:

• You receive the monetary order and see that it includes details you did not expect to be public.
• You become aware that the other party has been searching for you online or has posted your details.
• You begin a new job with public exposure and want to minimize risk tied to your name.
• You move to a confidential location and need to reduce the chance that the order leads others to you.
• You discover that a minor’s information appears in the order of evidence.

Use RTB-59 only for monetary orders. If you want a full decision to be anonymized or withheld, ask the Branch what process applies to decisions. The RTB-59 targets the monetary order listing itself and any connected publication in the Branch’s monetary order system.

Legal Characteristics of the RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication

RTB-59 is an administrative application. It asks the Branch to exercise discretion over publication. It is not a contract. It does not amend or cancel the monetary order. It does not change who owes what. It has no impact on whether the order can be enforced in court. It only affects public access to the order in the Branch’s publication systems.

Is it legally binding?

The outcome is binding on the Branch’s own publication practices. If the Branch grants a full exemption, it should not publish the monetary order in its systems. If it grants a partial exemption, it should publish only the redacted or anonymized version. If it denies the request, publication continues as usual. The decision does not bind third parties who may already have copied the order before removal. The Branch cannot control search engines, archives, or private databases.

What ensures enforceability?

The Branch controls its own records and systems. When it allows an exemption, it implements that decision in its database. The Branch may keep an internal copy as part of the official record. That is normal records management. Exemption targets public access, not internal retention.

General legal considerations:

• Presumption of openness. The Branch defaults to publishing monetary orders. You must show why your case warrants an exception.
• Burden and standard. You must give clear, credible reasons and supporting evidence. Assertions without proof carry less weight. The Branch will weigh harm to you against the public interest in access.
• Scope of relief. The Branch can grant a full exemption, partial exemption (for example, initials instead of full name, removal of identifying details), or a delayed publication. It might also choose to publish a summary that omits sensitive elements.
• No change to debt. Exemption does not affect the debt or collection rights under the order. You still owe or are owed whatever the order says.
• Timing. Apply as soon as possible. If publication has occurred, removal can still happen, but traces may remain elsewhere.
• Evidence handling. The Branch may keep sensitive evidence confidential. It may also ask for more information before deciding.
• Limited review options. Since this is an administrative publication decision, internal reconsideration may be limited. You can still seek legal advice if you disagree, but the dispute resolution process for the monetary order itself is separate.

Keep your application factual, focused, and specific. Tie each claimed harm to actual details in the order or the publication. Avoid broad statements like “this could be bad for me.” Clear, concrete risks and solid evidence help the Branch make a sound decision.

How to Fill Out an RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication

Follow these steps. Work through the form in order. Keep your answers precise and complete. Short, direct sentences are best.

Step 1: Gather the right documents

• The monetary order number and date.
• The Residential Tenancy Branch file number for your dispute.
• Full legal names of all parties as they appear on the order.
• Your contact information and preferred method of contact.
• Any evidence that supports your request. Examples include:
• A protection order or peace bond.
• A letter from a shelter, counsellor, advocate, or social worker.
• Police file numbers or incident reports.
• Medical or mental health letters confirming risk or vulnerability.
• Emails, texts, or screenshots showing threats or harassment.
• Proof of identity theft or fraud attempts.
• Documents showing a legal name change.
• Business documents proving confidentiality concerns.
• If you are an agent, your written authorization to act.

Step 2: Identify the parties

• Confirm whether you are the tenant, landlord, or agent.
• Enter the full names for each party exactly as on the monetary order.
• If a party is a business, use the legal business name.
• Provide addresses for service. If disclosure of your address would create risk, use a safe mailing address. Consider a P.O. box or an agent’s address.
• Include phone and email. Choose contact details that will not increase risk.

Step 3: Reference the order you want to exempt

• Enter the monetary order number and issue date. This links your request to the specific order.
• If there are multiple orders in the same dispute, list each one. You may need to submit separate forms if directed. Clarify in your cover note if you seek a global exemption.

Step 4: Choose the type and scope of exemption

• Indicate whether you request:
• Full exemption (no public publication of the monetary order).
• Partial exemption (publication allowed, but with redactions or anonymization).
• Temporary delay (hold publication for a set time).
• If partial, specify exactly what to remove. Examples:
• Replace names with initials.
• Remove addresses and contact details.
• Redact bank account or medical details.
• Generalize employment details.

Be realistic about the minimum needed to reduce risk. Full suppression may not be necessary if targeted redaction will address the problem.

Step 5: Explain your reasons

• Use clear headings in your explanation: Safety risk, Privacy risk, Vulnerability, Sensitive information, Business confidentiality, Other.
• For each heading, state the facts. Then link the facts to the harm. Finally, link the harm to the requested relief.
• Keep to the point. Avoid emotional language. Focus on risks and evidence.

Sample reasoning structure:

• Fact: “I have an active protection order due to family violence.”
• Risk: “Publication of my legal name and former address raises the chance I will be found.”
• Relief: “I request a full exemption from publication of the monetary order.”
• Evidence: “Protection order enclosed. Police file number provided.”

Another example:

• Fact: “The order’s attachments include my banking details.”
• Risk: “Publication could enable identity theft.”
• Relief: “I request a partial exemption with redaction of account numbers.”
• Evidence: “Highlighted copy of the attachment provided.”

Step 6: Attach supporting evidence

• Label each document. Use simple titles: “Exhibit A – Protection Order,” “Exhibit B – Police File Confirmation,” “Exhibit C – Letter from Counsellor.”
• If you submit screenshots, include dates and context. Explain what the screenshot shows.
• If you provide medical letters, limit the content to what is necessary. You can ask your provider to confirm risk without disclosing diagnoses.
• If a document includes details you do not want widely disclosed, say so. The Branch can keep your evidence for internal use only.

Step 7: Urgency request (if applicable)

• If there is an immediate safety risk, ask for an urgent review.
• Briefly explain the urgency and any dates that increase risk.
• Provide a safe phone number for quick contact.
• Note that if you seek a temporary hold on publication while the Branch decides.

Step 8: Representation and authorization

• If you are an agent, state your relationship and authority.
• Attach a signed authorization from the party you represent.
• Include your contact details and communications preferences.

Step 9: Declarations and signatures

• Review the certification statement on the form. You confirm that your statements are true.
• Sign and date the form. If you submit electronically, follow the signature instructions provided. Typed names may be accepted if allowed by the form’s instructions.
• If there are joint applicants, each should sign. If one cannot sign due to safety concerns, explain why and provide any alternate proof of consent.

Step 10: Submission

• Submit the form using the method listed on the form. Typical options include online upload, email, or mail.
• Keep proof of submission. Save the sent email, courier receipt, or online confirmation page.
• If you request urgency, flag it in the subject line or cover page.

Step 11: After you apply

• The Branch may ask for more information. Respond quickly.
• If your safety risk is acute, follow up to confirm interim handling. Ask if the publication will be paused while the Branch reviews your request.
• Once a decision is made, keep a copy. If you receive a partial exemption, review the published version to ensure redactions match the decision.
• If the order was already public and has been removed, understand that copies outside the Branch’s systems may persist.

Practical tips for a stronger application

• • Be specific. “I fear harassment” is weaker than “I received the attached threats yesterday after the hearing.”
  • Show the link. Explain how the published order would reveal the data that creates risk.
  • Propose a narrow alternative. If full suppression is not essential, target the redaction to the risky details.
  • Address counterpoints. Acknowledge the public interest and explain why it is outweighed here.
  • Keep it short. Two to four pages of reasons plus exhibits often suffice.
  • Protect your own safety in the process. Use safe contact details. Do not include sensitive locations in your reasons unless necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the order number or file number. The Branch needs these to locate your case.
• Not attaching evidence. Claims without proof are less persuasive.
• Asking to hide a debt purely to avoid reputational impact. Embarrassment alone is not enough.
• Submitting sensitive evidence without marking it as confidential. Add a note if you want restricted handling.
• Waiting too long. Apply promptly to reduce exposure.

Examples of successful requests

• Tenant with a protection order obtained a full exemption. The Branch found a real risk of harm and held that privacy outweighed publication.
• The landlord who faced stalking obtained a partial exemption. The Branch published an anonymized order with the address removed.
• The tenant who provided banking details as exhibits obtained targeted redactions. The Branch removed account numbers and identifiers, while keeping the monetary outcome transparent.

Examples of denied requests

• The applicant asked to hide an order to avoid impacting a job search. No evidence of safety risk or exceptional harm was provided.
• Applicant objected to publication on principle. The Branch maintained transparency and denied the request.

What this form does not do

• It does not cancel, vary, or reconsider the monetary order.
• It does not erase records held by courts or private entities.
• It does not affect deadlines for filing the order in court.
• It does not block the other party from enforcing the order.

What to do if the form is not enough

• If publication of the full decision is also a concern, ask the Branch what steps are available for decisions.
• If the monetary order contains an error, consider the Branch’s correction processes.
• If you face ongoing threats, keep working with police, a legal advocate, or a safety planner.

Checklist before you submit

• I included the file number and monetary order number.
• I identified all parties and my role.
• I clearly stated the type of exemption requested.
• I explained the reasons and linked them to evidence.
• I attached clear, labeled exhibits.
• I signed and dated the form.
• I used safe contact information.
• I kept copies of everything.

By following these steps, you can present a focused, credible request. You help the Branch understand your risk and choose the least intrusive solution that protects you.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter

• Application to exempt means you are asking the decision-maker not to publish your monetary order. With this form, you are not changing the order itself. You are only asking to keep it off a public list or to remove identifying details.
• Monetary order is the decision that states who owes money and how much. Your application focuses on the privacy of that order. The amount and parties may show in public search results unless exempted.
• Publication is the act of making a decision available to the public. That may include names, addresses, and amounts owed. This form asks the decision-maker to withhold that information from public release.
• Exemption is an approved exception to the normal publication rules. If granted, your order will not appear publicly, or it may appear with limited details. You must explain why your order should be exempt.
• Redaction means removing or masking identifying information. If a full exemption is not granted, partial redaction may be. You can ask to hide names, addresses, or unique details that identify you.
• Harm is the negative impact you say could occur if the order is published. Harm can include safety risks, identity risk, or unfair reputational damage. Your evidence should show actual risk, not just discomfort.
• Evidence is what you provide to support your reasons for exemption. It includes documents, letters, photos, or statements with dates and facts. Attach what proves the risk or harm you describe.
• Onus is your responsibility to prove why an exemption is justified. The default is publication. You need to persuade the decision-maker with clear facts and support.
• Confidential information is sensitive personal or financial data you do not want to be public. Identify what needs protection and why. Ask for redaction if a full exemption is not necessary.
• Decision is the outcome of your application. It can approve, deny, or partially grant your request. The decision itself may be published, even if your monetary order is not.

FAQs

Do you have to apply before the monetary order is issued?

You can apply once you have a monetary order or expect one soon. If you already have the order, apply as quickly as possible. Prompt action helps prevent publication while the request is pending.

Do you need the other party’s consent?

No. Consent is not required. The decision-maker may notify the other party or invite submissions. Your reasons must stand on their own. Do not rely on consent to prove harm.

Do you need to include evidence with the form?

Yes. Bare statements rarely succeed. Attach evidence that shows actual risk. Use records, letters, or other documents that support your claims. Explain how each exhibit connects to your request.

Do you need to serve the other party with this application?

You may need to serve the application if directed. Check any instructions you receive after filing. If service is required, follow the method and deadline provided. Keep proof of service.

Do you have to pay a fee?

A filing fee may apply. If a fee applies, payment must be made in full to process the application. If you request a fee waiver, include any required proof of financial hardship.

Do you have to show extreme circumstances?

You must show more than discomfort or inconvenience. Explain why publication would cause real harm. Provide facts, dates, and documents. Focus on specific risks, not general concerns.

Do you get a hearing for this application?

Sometimes. The decision-maker can decide based on written materials. Or they may schedule a short hearing or request more information. Prepare clear written reasons either way.

What if your application is denied?

Your monetary order may be published as usual. You can consider reapplying if new evidence arises. If a review or reconsideration process exists, follow the stated timeline and grounds. Act quickly.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication

Before signing

• Confirm the monetary order number and issue date.
• Gather the full names of all parties as they appear on the order.
• Identify which details you want protected: full exemption or redaction.
• Write a brief, factual summary of the harm you face if published.
• Collect supporting evidence. Examples:
• Police or safety reports.
• Letters from professionals or employers.
• Proof of identity risk, such as fraud alerts.
• Medical or counseling letters (only if necessary and relevant).
• Screenshots or posts showing targeted harassment.
• Business documents showing real reputational impact.
• Label each exhibit with a simple title and date.
• Remove irrelevant personal details. Redact account numbers or signatures on exhibits if not needed.
• Check for any deadlines you must meet.
• Confirm fee payment method or fee waiver documents, if applicable.

During signing

• Verify your legal name, address for contact, and preferred communication method.
• Confirm the correct order number, file number, and parties listed.
• State exactly what you want: full exemption, partial redaction, or anonymization.
• Clearly describe the harm with dates and specifics. Avoid generalities.
• Refer to each exhibit by label and explain its relevance.
• Confirm the declaration section is complete and accurate.
• Sign and date where indicated. Use the correct signature method if electronic.
• Double-check any authorization if you are an agent or representative.

After signing

• File the application using the accepted submission method.
• Pay the required fee or include your fee waiver request.
• Save a full copy of your application and all exhibits.
• Note any confirmation number or timestamp after filing.
• Calendar any deadlines for responses or hearings.
• If told to serve the other party, serve them the way you are instructed. Keep proof of service.
• Monitor your email and mail for requests for more information.
• Organize your file: application, order, evidence list, service proof, and correspondence.
• Prepare a short cover sheet summarizing key points for quick reference.
• Do not publish or share sensitive details while the application is pending.

Common Mistakes to Avoid RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication

Relying on unsupported claims

• Don’t say you “feel uncomfortable” without proof. Provide documents that show concrete risk. Without evidence, your request may be denied. Denial could lead to publication as usual.

Asking for everything when a narrow request would do

• Don’t request a full exemption if redaction solves the issue. Ask only for what is needed to address the harm. Overbroad requests can be rejected or narrowed without your input.

Forgetting to tie evidence to the harm

• Don’t attach exhibits without explaining why they matter. In your reasons, point to each exhibit and state what it proves. Unclear evidence weakens your case and frustrates the reviewer.

Missing deadlines or service steps

• Don’t ignore timelines or service instructions. Late or improper service can delay your application. It may also lead to dismissal without a decision on the merits.

Including sensitive data you don’t need

• Don’t submit full IDs, account numbers, or unrelated medical details. Over-disclosure raises privacy risks. It can also complicate redaction and slow the process.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form RTB-59 – Application to Exempt Monetary Order from Publication

File your application

• Submit the form and exhibits using the accepted method.
• Pay any fee or include your fee waiver materials.
• Keep your submission confirmation and a full copy of everything.

Track status and respond fast

• Watch for notices requesting more information.
• Respond by the deadline with focused answers and any extra exhibits.
• Keep all communications in one folder for quick access.

Prepare for a written decision or brief hearing

• If there is a hearing, prepare a short outline:
• What you seek: full exemption or specific redactions.
• Why publication causes harm.
• Where in your exhibits the proof appears.
• If no hearing, your written reasons must stand alone. Make sure they are clear.

If asked to serve the other party

• Follow the service method provided.
• Serve all required documents: the application, exhibits, and any notices.
• Complete and keep proof of service. Record dates and times.

Manage confidentiality while waiting

• Avoid public discussion of case details.
• Limit access to your file to those who need it.
• If you share documents with advisors, remove unnecessary sensitive data.

Receive and review the decision

• Read the result carefully. Note what is exempted and what is not.
• If the decision grants partial redaction, confirm the exact parts protected.
• If conditions apply, follow them precisely.

If your application is approved

• Save the decision with your records.
• Confirm that the monetary order is not publicly listed or is redacted as ordered.
• Check public listings later to make sure the outcome is implemented.

If your application is partially approved

• Verify that the redactions match the decision.
• If a correction is needed, contact the office promptly with specifics.

If your application is denied

• Review the reasons. Identify any gaps in evidence or clarity.
• Consider whether new or stronger evidence exists now.
• If a review or reconsideration process is available, check the grounds and deadlines. Act quickly if you qualify.

Update your own records

• Store the application, exhibits, decision, and any proof of service together.
• Keep both digital and paper copies if possible.
• Control who can access these records, especially if they contain personal details.

Plan future disclosures carefully

• Do not share the monetary order casually, even if exempted from publication.
• When you must share it, use a redacted version if that meets the need.
• Keep a template redacted copy ready to avoid errors.

If your circumstances change

• New risks may arise after filing. Document the changes.
• If allowed, you can request further protection or correction.
• Act quickly when new harm facts appear. Provide updated exhibits.

Stay consistent

• Use the same party names and file numbers across all documents.
• Keep your contact information current.
• Notify the office if your email or address changes so you do not miss notices.

Prepare for related processes

• If you are enforcing the monetary order, follow the enforcement steps separately.
• Your exemption does not change the amount owed or your enforcement rights.
• Keep your exemption decision handy in case you need to show it.

Maintain privacy practices

• Redact personal identifiers from documents you share.
• Limit distribution to those who need to see the file.
• Shred outdated copies when no longer needed under record-keeping rules.