Rates rebate calculator — known income

Use the calculator to work out what you might get as a rates rebate.

New calculator design

Try our new simplified calculator.

Information you need

You need the following information when you use the calculator:

  • the total rates you will pay for the current rating year — to
  • the number of dependants living with you on
  • your total household income before tax for the last tax year — to .

The calculator provides an estimate only. Read the following for help with questions 2 and 3, if required.

Who is a ‘dependant’

For question 2, a dependant includes eligible children or relatives.

Do not count your spouse or partner. They are included in question 3 about total household income, before tax.

No dependants?

Enter 0 in the question 2 answer field.

Eligibility criteria to meet

Dependent child

The eligibility criteria for a dependant child are that, on , the child:

  • is under the age of 18
  • is not married, in a civil union or de facto relationship.

Dependant relative

The eligibility criteria for a dependant relative are that, on , the dependent relative:

  • is a relative of the ratepayer
  • receives a government benefit (but not NZ Superannuation).

Shared custody of a dependant

If the number of days a dependant stays with you is half-time or varies each week, enter 1 in the question 2 answer field.

About ‘total household income before tax’

The following is a general summary of what is included as total household income.

It includes:

  • income that both you, and your spouse or partner, and / or joint homeowner living at the property received in the previous tax year
  • ‘before tax’ income for the tax year to
  • income from other sources, for example, government payments, interest and dividends, trusts and rentals
  • income from self-employment, which is the net income.

For more information about total income, see the application forms in step 1 of Apply for a rates rebate: application forms.

Enter the total rates you will pay for the current rating year. This could be a combination of local, regional or water rates. Find this information on the bill from your council.

A dependant is a child (under 18 years) or relative who usually lives with you — this includes children in shared care. Your spouse or partner is not a dependant.

Do you have a SuperGold card?

SuperGold cardholders have a higher income limit for the rates rebate.

For more information about this SuperGold card benefit, see:

This is the total income before tax (gross) that you and your spouse/partner or joint homeowners living at the property received in the previous tax year.

Applications close on 30 June each year. Find out how to apply at:
www.govt.nz/rates-rebate

Next step

If you think you could be eligible for a rebate, complete the application form. Contact your council if you have any questions.

Apply for a rates rebate: application forms

Other kinds of financial help

Utility links and page information

Was this page helpful?
Thanks, do you want to tell us more?

Do not enter personal information. All fields are optional.

Last updated