News

Rebates waiting for a ratepayer home

Lynne Pillay

09.06.2008

West Auckland people have until the end of June to apply for a rates rebate of up to $500.

Lynne Pillay, MP for Waitakere, says people need to make applications before 30 June to be considered for a rates rebate for the 2007/08 rating year.

"There's still money in this year's kitty - you can get up to $500 off your rates bill if you're eligible," says Lynne Pillay.

"It really is worth taking a few minutes to fill in the form. If you're a ratepayer and you're getting NZ Super, or you're on a low income or a benefit, and haven't yet looked into rates rebates, you still can.

"It's easy – just pop into the council offices, call them for an application form, or download one at www.ratesrebates.govt.nz."

The latest figures* show that $1,580,838 has been paid out to 3338 West Auckland households so far this rating year.

"We're dramatically behind the game compared to the same time last year, when 3621 had been granted, but with three weeks left for people to make their needs known, I'm encouraging as many as possible to apply," said Lynne Pillay.

Up to $70 million has been allocated for the Rates Rebate scheme for the current rating year. Eligibility depends on a combination of income and rates levels, along with the number of dependants. For example, a married couple on NZ Superannuation of $25,278 and paying annual rates of $1,899 or more would be entitled to $500. A married couple on NZ Superannuation of $25,278 and paying annual rates of $1,500 would be entitled to a $234 rebate.

Budget 08 future-proofed the Scheme, ensuring that the rebate and income eligibility will be amended to reflect inflation levels.

"Through initiatives like KiwiSaver, Working for Families and Rates Rebates, the government is helping families, young and old, in Waitakere and other communities across the country," says Ms Pillay.

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