Metro Urges Pensioners to Apply for Rebates: What You Need to Know

The City of Johannesburg’s metropolitan municipality recently delivered encouraging news to pensioners, announcing they can now apply for their rebates. The official statement, shared with Fourways Review, stated that the rebates process came into effect as of July 1, 2023, following the approval of the city’s budget on June 14, 2023. This development marks a significant step in providing financial relief and support to pensioners within the municipality.

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Among those who could have done better in taking advantage of this opportunity is Glen Pearch from Fourways. Expressing his satisfaction with the application process, Pearch revealed that he found it relatively easy and smooth. Sharing some insights into the eligibility criteria, he explained that individuals over 70, paying rates for properties valued at least two million, are entitled to the rebates. For example, Pearch’s property falls within the two to three million value range, meaning he will receive a substantial pay rate reduction of approximately R300,000. Pearch’s enthusiasm about this initiative is evident, describing it as a great idea for taxpayers, offering financial relief and making their lives easier. Particularly for seniors facing the challenges of inflation, this initiative is a much-needed sigh of relief, potentially reducing monthly rate payments considerably.

While Pearch is already contemplating celebrating his rebates, other pensioners have had varied experiences with the application process. Cheryl Lishman Jearey recounted submitting her paperwork at the Daisy Street office two weeks ago. However, she encountered a temporary setback, being informed that the system was offline. She was asked to leave her application with a helpful staff member and wait for a reference number to be sent via SMS, which she anticipates receiving around the end of July. Despite this minor delay, Jearey remains patient, appreciating that good things come to those who wait.

On the other hand, Amber Joy Johnson had a more challenging time during her application journey. She encountered a series of hurdles and runarounds, taking over a month to sort out her application. Eventually, she sought assistance at an office in Ivory Park, a process that initially caused some apprehension due to safety concerns. Fortunately, she was finally able to resolve her application successfully last Thursday.

The City of Joburg has outlined a clear process for pensioners to apply for the rebates. Interested individuals must submit their application forms and supporting documents at the designated walk-in centre. To track the progress of their application, they are strongly advised to request a reference number during the submission. It is essential to note that the city will not accept applications submitted via email, emphasising the importance of following the proper procedure.

To comprehensively understand the rebates, the municipality provided detailed information based on different age groups. Individuals aged 60 to 69 are eligible for various rebate percentages depending on their monthly income and property value. Those earning below R11,904 per month are entitled to a 100% rebate on the first R1.5 million property value. Those with incomes ranging from R11,904 to R20,404 monthly will receive a 50% rebate on the first R1.5 million. However, those with monthly incomes exceeding R20,404 will not qualify for the rebate. Additionally, individuals in this age group receiving a National Security Grant will be granted a 100% rebate on the first R1.5 million, with rates applicable to the property value exceeding this threshold.

Those aged 70 and above, irrespective of income, are eligible for a 100% rebate on the first R2 million of property value. Any property value exceeding R2 million will be levied with rates accordingly.

As the City of Johannesburg foresees an increase in the number of applications, they anticipate that processing the rebates may take approximately two to three months. The city humbly requests applicants’ patience during this period, assuring them that all pensioner rebates received before September 30, 2023, will be duly adjusted to reflect the rebates starting from July 1, 2023.

Applicants are encouraged to contact the city through [email protected] for any inquiries or assistance.

The metropolitan municipality of Johannesburg’s initiation of pensioner rebates has brought forth favourable responses from seniors like Glen Pearch, who appreciate the ease of application and the potential financial relief it offers. While some individuals experienced minor setbacks in their application journey, they remain patient, understanding that the rebates’ impact will be worth the wait. The municipality’s detailed explanations and transparent procedures ensure that pensioners clearly understand eligibility and the application process. As this initiative progresses, the City of Joburg reaffirms its commitment to assisting pensioners and acknowledges the importance of timely communication and patience during processing.

Source: Metro calls for pensioners to apply for rebates, here’s what you need to know

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Photo: Supplied by Fourways Review