Are You Eligible for a Rates Rebate?

From next Monday (1 August), homeowners can find out if they are eligible for a rebate on their rates.

New Plymouth District Council has organised a dedicated team to work with customers on their rates rebates applications during August.

“You can phone to make an appointment to see a rates rebates team member at the Civic Centre or a library and service centre in Bell Block, Waitara or Inglewood,” says Manager Financial Services Phil Armstrong.

“A team member will sit down with you and help you fill out the application form.”

The maximum rebate available through the nationwide scheme is $580.

Those who have previously received a rebate and whose circumstances have not changed will be eligible for a rebate this year – but they still need to apply for it.

The Council is writing to all previous rebate recipients about how to apply again.

“However we know there are people in the community who are eligible but have never applied,” says Mr Armstrong.

“We want everyone who thinks it’s possible they’re eligible for a rebate to get in touch – they might end up pleasantly surprised.”

Any applicant who owns their own home and has a household income of $23,240 or less will get a rebate. Homeowners on a higher income can be eligible depending on the level of rates and the number of dependents.

“It’s worth making an appointment with us and asking the question,” says Mr Armstrong.

A rebate can be applied for anytime during the 2011/12, but only during August will NDPC have a dedicated team to help the public work through their applications.