Msunduzi urges churches, pensioners to claim rates rebates

Msunduzi Municipality has urged religious organisations and pensioners to apply, or reapply, for property rates rebates, warning that failure to do so could result in properties being billed at full residential or commercial tariffs. Municipal officials addressed religious leaders and pensioners during a meeting at Jacob’s Well Ministries in Northdale, where they outlined the qualifying criteria and application process. Msunduzi’s manager for rates and auxiliary revenue, Moges Pillay, said several religious organisations had failed to reapply after the five-year rebate period lapsed.

“We have found that multiple religious organisations have not reapplied for their rates rebate after five years. If they fail to reapply, the property will be charged as residential or commercial, which can result in arrears and possible disconnections,” said Pillay. He said once an organisation reapplies and qualifies, the rebate will reflect in the following month’s billing cycle.

Pillay stressed that to qualify, a property must primarily be used for religious purposes. Churches renting premises do not qualify for the rebate, he added, clarifying concerns raised during the meeting. Pensioners were also reminded that they are required to reapply annually to continue benefiting from the rebate.

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“We have found that many pensioners are not coming forward to apply or have not reapplied annually. The application process is open throughout the year, and we encourage them to make use of it,” Pillay said. Raisethorpe ward councillor Rachel Subjee, who convened the meeting, said additional engagements would be held to assist residents and religious organisations with applications. Applications may be submitted through ward councillors or at the municipality’s offices at 333 Church Street.

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