08 August 2006

Time to apply for the rates rebate

As Kapiti Coast District ratepayers receive their rates accounts this week (August 8), it's time to apply for the Government's rates rebate, Group Manager Finance & Audit for the Council, Warwick Read, says.

As many as 8000 Kapiti Coast District ratepayers may be eligible, he said.

"We've been working hard to make sure we have a system in place so people can enquire about their eligibility for the rebates and can go through the application process."

An information sheet on the rebate, the application form and the process as well as a chart showing the level of rates rebate for various levels of income and rates paid is included with each rates account.

People or households earning less than $20,000 qualify while households earning more than that may still qualify but the amount of the rebate reduces by $1 for every $8 of income earned over $20,000.

There is also an allowance for dependants of $500. (This means the income threshold for a full rates rebate is $20,000 for the 2006/2007 year and the allowance increases by $500 for each dependant in the household.)

The Rates Office has developed simple tables to work out eligibility and the tables and application forms are available from the Council's offices and the Government website www.ratesrebates.govt.nz. They are also on the Council's website www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/Democracy/FundingRates/.

"If you're eligible then you need to fill in an application form and provide accurate information on your gross income for the year ended March 31, 2006," Mr Read said. "One way of doing this is to obtain a 'Summary of Earnings' from Inland Revenue for the year from April 1, 2005 to March 31 2006. Just call 0800 257 778, have your IRD number to hand and go through the automated phone process. A summary is generally received within 10 days.

"Once you've completed your application, contact the Council on Tel. (04) 904 5700 to make an appointment for an interview. If you have real difficulties completing the form you could also contact us."

Due to the high volume of applications expected and the time involved in processing them, the rates rebates will be credited against the second rates instalment which is due in November.

"That means the first instalment needs to be paid in full and the credit will be applied to the November account."

ENDS

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