Jump in Rate Rebate applications wanted

Council is hoping to see a big jump in the number of people applying for a rate rebate this year and is urging lower income ratepayers to check their eligibility if they have not yet done so.

Mayor Don Cameron said that with the rate rebate being worth up to $665 it provides important financial support for many people and is well worth applying for.

“We are wanting to ensure that everyone who qualifies for a rate rebate receives it,” he said.

“Checking whether you qualify and the value of your rebate if you do is really easy.

All people need do is drop-by or call their local Council office where the Customer Services staff can discuss your eligibility with you.”

Mayor Cameron said that the number of people applying for a rate rebate varies from year to year which was interesting and may indicate that there are people who could benefit who are missing out.

"It is important to note that because personal circumstances change you need to apply for the rate rebate every year even if you have previously been successful in gaining one," he said.

"Last rating year (2020/21) Council helped return $317,000 to 529 rebate ratepayers.

That is a lot of money that got returned to Ruapehu communities.

So far for this 2021/22 rating year we have received 320 applications and granted rebates worth almost $200,000.

We are hopeful that we can exceed last year’s total and see even more Ruapehu whanau benefit from the scheme.

As the value of any rebate is determined by a formula that takes into account household income, number of dependents and the level of rates being paid we would encourage any lower income ratepayers who have not applied this rating year to give us a call to check whether they qualify.

Rebate applications for the current rating year are open until 30 June," he said.

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