Joburg Pensioners Get Breathing Room as Rebates Cut-Offs Delayed

The City of Johannesburg has granted an extension for pensioner rebates, ensuring that previously eligible pensioners won’t face possible cut-offs until the end of September 2023. According to The Citizen, the City of Johannesburg’s Director of Communications and Stakeholder Management, Kgamanyane Maphologela, stated that the application process for pensioner rebates has already begun, with 15,000 applications received so far.

“The City is sensitive to the needs of senior citizens, and all municipal accounts of registered pensioners who were previously approved to receive the lapsed pensioner rebates will immediately be flagged from any possible credit control until the end of September 2023,” Maphologela said.

While the City has informed residents of higher rates on their municipal statements due to new tariffs taking effect from 1st July, Maphologela emphasised that all ratepayers must pay the updated rate. Pensioners whose rebates lapsed on 30th June 2023 must reapply and undergo a re-evaluation to determine eligibility.

Ward 72 Counsellor, Daniel Schay, expressed concern over the processing time for pensioner rebate applications, suggesting that automation could streamline the process for those over 70.

Also read: City of Johannesburg Encourages Pensioners to Re-Apply for Property Rate Rebates

Maphologela urged all ratepayers to adhere to the new tariff structure until their objections and pensioner rebates are finalised, applicable to new and previously eligible applicants. Only after written approval confirmation can property owners begin paying the reduced rates.

Successful applicants will receive adjusted rates with backdated rebates but must apply before September. The City categorised pensioners into two groups – those aged 60 to 69 and those 70 and above.

Pensioners between 60 to 69 must meet specific criteria for 100% rebates:

1. Gross monthly income lower than R11,904
2. 2. Property value not exceeding R1.5 million (including the R300,000 residential threshold value)

For pensioners aged 70 and above, the City does not consider income levels, and successful applicants qualify for 100% rebates on properties up to R2 million in market value.

Also read:

Joburg Offers Municipal Bill Relief for Senior Citizens

Picture:  Pixabay / Gia Conte-Patel

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