Media Release

1 June 2007

 
Deadline Near For Rates Rebates Applications

Manukau City Council is urging ratepayers to check now to see if they are eligible for a rates rebate, as the deadline for completed applications to be received at the council offices is 29 June, which is the last business day of the month.

So far, a total of 3195 ratepayers have had rebates confirmed for 2006/07.   The total paid out is $1,432,772.89, with an average rebate paid of $448.

“We believe there are many property owners in Manukau who still qualify for rebates but have not yet filled out an application,” Group Finance Manager Bob Trautz says.

“Ratepayers can check whether they qualify on line at www.manukau.govt.nz.  An easy-to-use calculator will show whether they qualify for a full $500 rebate or a partial rebate, depending on their individual circumstances,” Mr Trautz says.

“It’s important that ratepayers check as soon as possible as the council must receive completed applications by 29 June.  Any received after that date will not be eligible for the 06/07 rates rebate period.”

While the maximum rebate is $500, and the income threshold is $20,000, ratepayers earning up to $30,000 or more might also qualify. This is because rebates are calculated on a sliding scale balancing the actual amount of the rate demand against income and the number of dependents the ratepayer has. For example, a ratepayer with three dependants on an income of $30,000 and a rates total of $1850 will still qualify for a partial rebate.

“Rates rebate applications only apply for the rates within the current financial year, so we urge people to apply before the end of June to qualify for the 2006/07 year.”

People can check online at www.manukau.govt.nz, or call the Manukau City Council call centre on 262 5104 for more information or to make an application.

 
ENDS

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