Do You Qualify for a Rates Rebate?

Did you know that you may qualify for a rebate on your rates? If you are a low income homeowner you can apply to have a portion of your rates refunded under the Rates Rebate Scheme, which was established in 1973 to help those who were struggling to meet this cost.

Homeowners can receive refunds of up to $550.00, so it is worth applying if you think you might qualify.

“You can contact the Kaipara District Council offices in Kaiwaka or Dargaville if you think you may fit the criteria, and would like further information on the rates rebate scheme,” says Kaipara District Council Finance Portfolio holder Brian Burnett.

Property values have increased quite drastically in some parts of the Kaipara after the latest Quotable Value figures, which are used to calculate the amount of rates you pay, we released late last year. Theses valuations are only done every three years, so the resulting jump in rates can seem quite sudden.

“Council has implemented a rate increase of just 4% for the next financial year but some people may be feeling more of a pinch as the improved property valuations, while being great for people’s equity, have bumped up rates more in some areas. The rates rebate scheme is something that can help ease this pressure,” says Mr Burnett.

Rate instalments fall due on the 20th of August 2009, October 2009, December 2009, February 2010, April 2010 and June 2010, and can be paid in one lump sum or on this bi-monthly schedule. You can use internet banking to make regular automatic payments and keep up-to-date.

Eligibility for the rebate is based on a scale involving the total rates and household income. The larger the rates bill the higher the income level that qualifies for rebate.

“If you think you may qualify for a Rates Rebate please do not hesitate to call in or contact our offices on 0800 100 388 or 0800 727 059,” says Mr Burnett.

“It is certainly something that can help ease financial strain.”