May 08, 2007

Last chance for rates relief

There is still time for North Shore City ratepayers to receive rebates on their rates bills before this year’s cut-off date. North Shore City’s financial services manager, John McLaren, is urging residents who think they may be eligible for a rebate not to delay and to check with council.

“The scheme will benefit people who pay rates for the home in which they live and whose incomes are below the thresholds set by the government. “Changes to the scheme mean that more people will be able to save on their rates bill and, in some cases, the saving could be as much as $500.”

Already nearly 3,500 people have received an annual rebate but many more may qualify and they may miss out on this year’s rebate if they don’t apply before the cut-off date of June 30.

“The scheme only allows people to apply for and receive a rebate in this financial year which runs from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007. After that they can apply for next year’s rebate from July onwards but they would lose out on this year’s rebate.

“Only those people who have not already applied this year should apply. We will accept applications for next financial year from July. “It’s difficult to know how many people will benefit from the government’s scheme as councils do not have access to income figures. Estimates vary and it may be many more people in North Shore City,” he says.

The steps to follow when applying for a rebate: Calculate if you are eligible for a rebate by using the rebate calculator from the Department of Internal Affairs website www.ratesrebate.govt.nz or contact the council on 486 8600. Fill in an application form to apply for the rates rebate. Forms are available from council area offices, by calling 486 8600 or by downloading the form from www.ratesrebates.govt.nz.

To avoid delays, people can complete the form, getting their signature witnessed (as noted on the form) and posting the form to North Shore City Council, Rates Department, Private Bag 93500, Takapuna, 0740.

John McLaren says people who need help working out if they are eligible for a rebate or who are having trouble paying their rates, should call North Shore City Rates Department on 486 8600 to discuss the matter in confidence. People may also enquire at the council’s offices at 1 The Strand, Takapuna. (ends)

ENDS

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