Council Hoping for Largest Ever Number of Rate Rebate Applications

Ruapehu District Council (RDC) is hoping for a big increase in the number of rate rebates paid out to Ruapehu ratepayers this financial year.

RDC Chief Executive, Peter Till, said that the Rates Rebate Scheme that was established in 1973 to provide a subsidy to low-income homeowners offers important financial support for many Ruapehu ratepayers.

“So far this financial year (2013-14) Council had processed 185 eligible applications worth $101,300 in rebates,” he said.

“For various reasons the number of rate rebate applications that Council receives varies from year to year.”

“Last financial year (2012-13) we processed 481 rebates worth $258,885.31 whereas the year before (2011-12) we processed 521 rebates worth $289,413.90.”

“Our biggest year to date was 2007-08 when we processed 543 successful applications.”

“We would really like to see an even greater number of Ruapehu ratepayers benefiting from this scheme in the current financial year.”

Mr Till said that the amount paid back in subsidy is determined by a formula that takes into account, household income, number of dependents and the level of rates being paid.

“The base income threshold for a full rates rebate for the 2013/14 year is $23,870 and is increased by $500 for each dependant in the household,” he said.

“It is important to note however that although a ratepayer’s income might exceed the income threshold a partial rates rebate could still be available, depending on the rates amount and number of dependants.”

“As such Council would encourage Ruapehu ratepayers to contact us to check as to whether they are eligible.”

Mr Till noted that Council has staff specially trained in this area and are able to quickly ascertain whether you are entitled to a rate rebate.

“Because some people’s circumstances may have changed ratepayers need to apply again every year even if they have previously been successful in gaining a rate rebate,” he said.

“Although ratepayers have until 30 June 2014 to put in an application for this financial year Council would encourage them to do so as soon as possible.”

“You don’t need to have paid your rates in full before applying for the rate rebate as Council holds the rebate on your behalf and reduces your outstanding rates to pay accordingly as they come due.”

“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 call your local Council office.”

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