Thames-Coromandel District Council is hosting two rebates clinics at its Tairua and Pauanui offices for anyone needing help applying or processing their rates rebate applications.

Applications for TCDC's 2014/2015 rates rebate year are being taken now, and close on June 30, 2015.

TCDC is holding a rates rebate clinic at Tairua Library (pictured) on August 14. Photo: Google maps.

The Rates Rebates Clinics are on August 14 at both locations. The Pauanui Library clinic is open 9.30am-11.30am, while the Tairua Library clinic is open that afternoon from 1.30pm-4.30pm.

These clinics are being held by our TCDC customer service team member Eileen Hopping.

TCDC residents can bring along their application forms, and any relevant documents, to help with processing.

The Rates Rebate Scheme was established in 1973 to provide assistance to low-income homeowners on the cost of their rates.

Following another review of the scheme, the Government increased the rates rebate thresholds for the 2014/2015 rating year.

From July 1, 2014, the maximum rebate has increased from $595 to $605 and the income threshold has risen from $23,870 to $24,250, while the additional income allowance for dependants remains at $500 per dependant.

This means the income threshold for a full rates rebate for the 2014/2015 year is $24,250 and is increased by $500 for each dependant in the household.

Although a ratepayer's income might exceed the income threshold, a rates rebate could still be available, depending on the rates amount and number of dependants.

Check out some example tables, click here.

To use an electronic calculator to see if you could be eligible, click here.

If you receive a benefit from Work and Income, you may also like to take a look at the Schedule of Work and Income Benefits for the year ended 31 March 2014, by clicking here.

This table details the benefit rates for the tax year 2013/2014 and the minimum rates payable in order to receive any or the full rebate.