16 April 2007

Nearly $3 million approved in rates rebates

More than 6000 Auckland city ratepayers have received close to $3 million worth of rates relief due to the extended criteria for the central government and Auckland City Council rates rebate scheme.

"We are thrilled that the uptake of the scheme is close to seven times the number of the last financial year," said Councillor Vern Walsh, chairperson of the Finance and Corporate Business Committee.

"However, we believe there are a significant number of ratepayers who could still benefit from a rebate but aren't claiming one yet. I encourage anyone who is on a fixed or low income, or a benefit to call the council to find out if they are eligible," said Mr Walsh. "Even if people have paid all or part of their rates, they can still apply for a rebate right up to the closing date of 30 June."

The criteria for rates rebates have been extended by central government and Auckland City Council this year, so more people are eligible to benefit from them.

The key changes to eligibility are as follows:

* an increase in the maximum rebate from $200 to $500

* in most cases the income threshold to receive a full rebate has increased from $7400 to $20,000

* some people earning over this figure will also be eligible to receive a rates rebate depending on their rates bill (for example, a married couple who received a New Zealand Superannuation of $24,456 and are paying annual rates of $1,746 or more would still be entitled to a maximum rebate of $500)

* an increase in the additional income allowance for each dependent from $156 to $500.

The average rebate of the Auckland City Council ratepayers who have had their rates rebates applications approved is $475.

Ratepayers can get more information on rebates and useful examples of how the rates rebate is calculated by visiting www.aucklandcity.govt.nz or phoning 09 379 2025.

The closing date for rates rebates is 30 June 2007.

ENDS

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