Rates rebate scheme proves popular with ratepayers

3 January 2007

Over $4 million worth of rates rebates have now been paid out to Christchurch ratepayers under the Government’s rates rebate scheme – more than double that of any other council in the country.

The scheme, administered in Christchurch by Christchurch City Council, aims to provide rates assistance to people who have a low income. It takes into account the total income of the household, and also how many dependants a resident has.

Over 9,000 Christchurch homeowners have now applied to the scheme, with 6,000 receiving the full rebate available of $500.

Ratepayers may be eligible for a rates rebate if they :

• Are single, live alone and have a low income,
• Have a total household income (including spouse) less than $20,000;
• Have a total household income that exceeds $20,000, depending on the number of dependants and the amount of rates; or
• Are a couple whose only income is New Zealand Superannuation, with an annual rates bill of more than $1,000 and no dependants.

Council posted information to all ratepayers with their last rates accounts, has information on its website (www.ccc.govt.nz) and has trained staff at all service centres to help people fill out the application form to receive the rebate if they are eligible.

Applications also require a 2006/07 rate account and details of income - this could be a statement from Work and Income, an IRD summary of earnings, a certificate of earnings from an employer(s), a statement of interest from the bank, details of share dividends, a copy of audited accounts if self-employed or any combination of the above.

Applications cannot be processed without all the correct information.

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