Rates Rebate Scheme: Who Qualifies and What You Get

This scheme helps homeowners with lower incomes reduce the amount they pay for their local council rates.

👤Who it's for

This support is designed specifically for homeowners who are living on a low income. It is intended to assist those who may find the standard cost of local council rates difficult to manage on their current budget. If you own your home and meet the income criteria set by the government, you may be able to access this assistance.

🎁What you get

If you qualify, you will receive a reduction in your annual council rates. This reduction is applied to the rates you owe to your local council, effectively lowering your total housing costs for the year. This can provide significant relief for those managing a fixed or limited budget.

💰What it costs you

There is no direct fee required to access this support, so it is a free service provided to those who meet the requirements. However, there is a cost in terms of your time. You will need to go through the formal application process, which involves providing the necessary details about your homeownership and your income to the relevant authorities.

⚠️The catch to know

The most important thing to remember is that this is not a permanent or automatic discount. Even if you received a rebate last year, you must re-apply every single year to ensure you continue to receive the reduction for the new period. If you forget to re-apply, you may lose the discount for that year.

📝How to apply

1. Confirm that your current income level meets the requirements for low-income assistance.
2. Prepare the necessary documentation regarding your home and income to support your claim.
3. Complete the application process as required by your local authority.
4. Submit your completed application to your local council for processing.
5. For more information and guidance, visit the official portal: https://www.govt.nz/browse/housing-and-property/getting-help-with-housing/getting-a-rates-rebate/