Apply for a rates rebate: application forms

Once you receive your rates bill, you can apply for a rebate for the current rating year period 1 July 2024 to 2025. You must return your application to the council by 2025.

  1. 1

    Check if you’re eligible for a rates rebate

    Try our rates rebate calculator to find out what your rebate might be.

    This calculator:

    • is quick, easy and free to use
    • gives an estimate of your rebate
    • may help you to decide if you want to apply for a rebate
    • is not part of the application process.
    Rates rebate calculator
  2. 2

    Get your information and documents ready

    Your application must include:

    • the application form — fully completed and signed
    • proof of your total household income before tax
    • a signed declaration form — if you live in a retirement village or company-share apartment.

    Do not wait until the last minute to apply. It may take you some time to get your information, documents and application ready.

    Who is eligible to get a rates rebate

  3. 3

    Get a copy of the application form

    You need to either:

    • download and print the application form yourself, or
    • get a printed copy of the application form from your local council.

    Rates rebate application form (PDF 285KB)

    Find your local council — Local Government New Zealand

    If one of the following also applies to you, include a declaration form when you apply.

    If you live in a retirement village

    Your village manager must complete a declaration form.

    Retirement village residents — Declaration form (PDF 108KB)

    If you live in a company-share apartment

    The person who is responsible for paying rates for the whole property must sign a declaration form.

    Company-share apartment residents — Declaration form (PDF 744KB)

  4. 4

    Sign the declaration

    You need to confirm on the application form that the information you’ve provided is true — do this by signing the declaration.

    Check you’ve completed and signed the application form and included all of the required documents.

  5. 5

    Give your application to the council

    Post or drop off your application to the council.

    Your application is due by each year.

    If you miss this deadline, you cannot get a rebate. You’ll need to wait and apply next year.

    If you’re unsure about any part of the application form, contact your local council for help.

    Find your local council — Local Government New Zealand

  6. 6

    What happens next — after you apply

    The council will fully assess your application and may contact you to confirm the information that’s in your application.

    If your application is approved, the council will deduct the amount of your rebate from your rates bill.

    If you’ve already paid your rates in full, the council will contact you about your rebate.

    Contact your council if you have any questions.

    Find your local council — Local Government New Zealand

    Check if you can get more help with housing costs.

    Help with housing and paying rent

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