The Rates Rebate Scheme was established by the Government in 1973 to provide a subsidy of up to $580 on rates for low income earners. Your rebate will be calculated based on your income, rates and how many dependants you have. The Government, following a review of the Scheme, has further increased the rates rebate thresholds for the 2011/12 rating year.

The following changes came into effect on 1 July 2011:

• Maximum rebate increased from $570 to $580
• Income threshold increased from $22,340 to $23,240
• The additional income allowance for dependants will remain $500 per dependant.

To be eligible for a rates rebate you need to earn less than $23,240; however if you earn more than this you could still be entitled to a rebate depending on the total cost of your rates and how many dependants you have. Please contact customer services for more information or to find out if you qualify.

When applying for a rates rebate please bring with you:

• A copy of your 2011/12 Matamata-Piako District Council rates account (available from August 2011)
• A copy of your 2011/12 Environment Waikato rates account (available from Septmber 2011) call 0800 800 401
• A copy of your Income Certificate from Inland Revenue for the 2010/11 year from 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011. Please supply certificates for any spouse/partner or joint home owner who lives in the dwelling with you. Contact Inland Revenue on 0800 257 778.
• A copy of any certificates stating interest earned on investments to 31 March 2011.

The last day to apply for the 2010/2011 year is 30 June, 2011. Appointments for the 2011/12 year will be available in September 2011, please contact Customer Services on 0800 746 467 to find out more information or to book an appointment.

For further information on the Rates Rebate Scheme, visit the Department of Internal Affairs.