Last reviewed: Wed, 30 Sep 2009

Rates rebate

You could get a $550 rates reduction as part of the Government's rate rebate scheme to provide assistance towards rates for low income earners.

The amount of rebate depends on a combination of your income, the amount of rates you are charged, and the number of dependants you have. The maximum rebate is $550.

What is a rates rebate (reduction)?

It is a Government scheme to provide assistance towards rates for low income earners. The amount of rebate depends on a combination of your income, the amount of rates you are charged, and the number of dependants you have.

  • The maximum rebate is $550.
  • Your spouses income is taken into account (that's total household income).
  • Your income for the period from 1 April 2008 to 31 March 2009 is used for the calculation.

Income does not include the following:

  • Disability Allowance
  • cash grants/capital payments
  • war widow’s or war disablement benefits
  • medal or honour payments
  • grants for funeral expenses
  • prizes and winnings
  • family support.

Am I eligible for the rate rebate?

The rebate scheme is based on low income and the level of rates you pay.

If this is you:

  • Your income is low.
  • You pay the rates on the address that you live at.
  • You were living there as at 1 July 2009.
  • Your name is on the rates bill.

You may be eligible if:

  • You are single, live alone and your income is low.
  • Your total household income (including spouse) is less than $21,910.
  • Your total household income exceeds $21,910 depending on the number of dependants and the amount of your rates.
  • You are a couple whose only income is New Zealand Superannuation and you have no dependants.
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I think I am eligible - how do I apply?

Our staff are happy to help, but you must make an appointment and have all the information with you when you come in.

You can either:

You need to complete the form and either:

  • Complete the form, then ring (03) 941 8888 or 0800 800 169 (Banks Pennisula residents only) with proof of income and make an appointment to come into one of our service centres.
  • Get an authorised person to sign the form (see details on the application form) and send the form to PO Box 237, Christchurch - we will advise you of your rebate.
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Making your application - what you will need

To make your application you must have:

Please note: Your application can not be processed without all the correct information.

Our staff can tell you how much your reduction will be straight away.
You can calculate your rebate by going to the Department of Internal Affairs website.

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Authorising Unit: Corporate Support

Last reviewed: Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Next review: Tuesday, March 30, 2010