Media Release:  Wednesday 22 March 2017
 
Rates Rebates payments to ratepayers pass $1 million mark
 
Over $1 million in Rates Rebates has been paid to eligible Horowhenua District ratepayers in the current financial year so far.
 
Since the current Rates Rebates application period opened last July, there have been 1826 applications and $1,007,580.76 has been paid out.  For the whole of the previous year there were 2117 applications made and $1,157,350.88 paid out.
 
Council’s Finance Manager Jeff Paulin says “excellent effort Horowhenua; this is really encouraging”.
 
“We urge those who have not yet applied for this rating year to do so, as we would really like to exceed last year’s application numbers. There is nothing to lose and, who knows if you are eligible, you could get up to $610 credited towards your rates,” he said.
 
Residential ratepayers with a household income up to $24,470 may be eligible for a rates rebate up to $610. Those earning above the maximum threshold may still qualify for a rebate, depending on income, level of rates and number of dependants. The rebate is based on total income for the year ending 31 March 2016 and the amount of rates for both Horowhenua District Council and Horizons Regional Council.
 
Mr Paulin says the process is not complicated and Council staff can meet with ratepayers and help them complete their applications.  To make an appointment phone 06 366 0999 or email ratesrebates@horowhenua.govt.nz.
 
The only information applicants need to provide is proof of income (before tax) for the tax year ended 31 March 2016, including any interest received, as well as proof of a partner’s income or joint income if living together.
 
Application forms are available from Horowhenua District Council’s main office in Levin and its service centres at the Foxton and Shannon community libraries, or online at www.horowhenua.govt.nz/ratesrebates
 
ENDS

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