It's not too late for a Rates Rebate

5/04/2007

If you are a low-income homeowner and you paid rates in the 06/07 rating year, you have until 30 June to apply for a rebate of up to $500.

The income threshold for eligibility for a rebate is $20,000. However, if your income is more than $20,000 you could still be entitled to a rebate depending on the total cost of your rates. Regional council rates are included in the calculation for a rebate.

There is also an additional income allowance of $500 per dependant living in your household. This means that if you have dependants you can earn more, and still be eligible for a rebate.

For a quick check of whether you are likely to be eligible go to the rates rebate website www.ratesrebates.govt.nz and enter your details into the ‘rebate calculator’. You can also download the ‘rates rebate application form’.

To apply for a rebate you will need to contact your local council and provide them with the following information:

• Your rates’ notice (including your regional rates’ notice if billed separately)
• Information about what your income (before tax) was for the tax year ended 31 March 2006
• Information about what your partner/joint homeowner’s income is if he/she lives with you.

The income threshold for the Rates Rebate Scheme was increased last July meaning up to 300,000 New Zealanders are now eligible for a rebate compared with approximately 4200 people who received a rebate in the 2005-06 rating year.

So far more than 98,000 rebates worth over $44 million have been paid out in the 06/07 rating year. Make sure it is not you who is missing out on your entitlement, and apply for your rebate today.


Media Contact:

Ronnie Anderson, communications adviser, Department of Internal Affairs
Ph 04 494 0570; cell 0274 719 464