Council Calls for Rate Rebate Applications
Council Calls for Rate Rebate Applications
Ruapehu mayor Don Cameron is urging ratepayers to check their eligibility for receiving a rate rebate before the deadline on 30 June 2015 if they haven’t done so.
Mayor Cameron said that with the median household income in Ruapehu being below the national average the Rates Rebate Scheme provides important financial support for many of our ratepayers.
“The rebate any ratepayer receives is determined by a formula that takes into account; household income, number of dependents and the level of rates being paid,” he said.
“For the current 2014/15 rating year the maximum rebate obtainable has been increased to $605 and the income threshold to $24,250 with an additional allowance of $500 per dependant.”
“As such although a ratepayer’s income might exceed the base income threshold a partial rates rebate could still be available, depending on the rates amount and number of dependants.”
Mayor Cameron said that best and easiest thing to do is to contact Council where specially trained staff are able to quickly ascertain whether someone is entitled to a rebate.
“Because circumstances change people need to apply every year even if they have previously been successful in gaining a rate rebate,” he said.
“Council is hoping to see a big increase in the number of rate rebates paid out in Ruapehu this year.”
“For various reasons the number of rate rebate applications that Council receives varies from year to year.”
“So far this rating year (2014/15) Council had processed 411 rebate applications worth $233,113.40,” he said.
“Last year (2013/14) we processed 507 applications worth 283,632.31, the year before (2012/13) we processed 481 rebates worth $258,885.31, and the year before that (2011/12) we processed 521 rebates worth $289,413.90.”
“Not counting the current year that is $831,931.52 in rebate support to Ruapehu ratepayers over three years.”
Mayor Cameron said that the final rate instalment for the current year was due next Wednesday (20 May 15).
“If you have already paid this year’s rates in full you can get your rate rebate paid out in cash.”
“For enquires on rate rebate applications please contact your local Council office.”
ENDS