What is a rates rebate?
The Rates Rebate Scheme was established by the Department of Internal Affairs in 1973 to provide a subsidy to low-income homeowners on the cost of their rates. If you have a low income and pay the rates on your home, you could be eligible for a rebate or reduction of up to $790 in the 2024/25 financial year.
Rates rebates are administered by local councils on behalf of central government. For 2024/25 the income threshold is $31,510, however if you earn above that amount you may still qualify for a rebate dependent on your circumstances. Paper application forms for the 2024/25 financial year are available from the main office.
Eligibility
To read the full eligibility criteria visit the website. If you believe you meet this criteria and would like to check if you are eligible then use their rates rebate calculator.
How do I apply?
Application details are available on the Department of Internal Affairs website.
- You can also download their Rates Rebate Application Form
- Collect a hard copy form from a Council office
- Contact us and we can post a form out to you
Our staff are happy to assist you with any further queries you may have.
When applying for a rates rebate, you must provide the following:
- Accurate information about your income (and that of any spouse/partner or joint homeowner who lives with you) for the tax year
- Your Ōtorohanga rates notice and your Waikato Regional Rates Notice
Applications close on 30 June 2025 and cannot be accepted after this date for a rebate from the 2024/25 financial year. Once your application has been processed, Council will inform you in writing the outcome.
If you’re not sure if you’ve already applied for a rebate, please contact our team.
Download the rates rebate form 2024/25
Rates rebate outreach
If you need help with your rates rebate application or want to know if you qualify our Rates Rebate Outreach team will be in your area soon. to find out more.