The 'ability to pay' principle means that government fees, fines, or taxes should consider how much money someone actually has. Under this principle, a wealthy person and a low-income person might pay different amounts for the same service or penalty. For example, some municipalities offer sliding-scale recreation fees, where families with lower incomes pay less for programs. Canada's income tax system is based on ability to pay—the more you earn, the higher percentage you pay in taxes. This approach aims to make government services accessible to everyone while ensuring those who can afford to contribute more do so.