With the new municipal tariffs taking effect from 1 July 2026, residents will see increases of 5% on property rates, refuse, sewerage and water services, and 8.5% on electricity. These increases may place additional pressure on household budgets, particularly for pensioners and residents living with disabilities.
To help ease this burden, qualifying pensioners and disabled homeowners can apply for a municipal rates rebate. If you qualify, applying early will ensure you receive the financial relief available to help offset rising municipal and living costs.
Rebate amounts (1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027):
100% rebate: Household income of R4 800 or less
70% rebate: Household income of R9 600 or less
40% rebate: Household income of up to R19 200
Important application deadlines
20 July 2026: Standard application deadline
30 September 2026: Late applications may be considered in accordance with the approved Rates Policy
Have your supporting documents ready and submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadlines.
How to apply
Updated application forms are available:
* Online: Visit www.overstrand.gov.za → Documents → Forms >Financial Rebates
* In person: Any Overstrand municipal office
Completed applications, along with supporting documents, can be submitted via:
* Email: enquiries@overstrand.gov.za
* Hand-in: At your nearest municipal office
Who qualifies?
You may be eligible if you:
* Are a South African citizen
* Occupy the property as your primary residence (or your spouse/minor children if you cannot, with absences of up to three months per year allowed)
* Are 60 years or older, or receive a state disability pension
* Have a total monthly household income not exceeding R19 200 (2026/2027)
* Own only one property
Usufructuaries (right-of-habitation holders) or executors/administrators of deceased estates may also apply, providing an affidavit or a Master of the High Court letter as proof.
‘Gross monthly household income’ includes salaries, wages, pensions, grants, dividends, interest, rental income, board and lodging, capital deposits, investment returns or disability income for all residents on the property.
Note: Submitting an application does not guarantee approval. False or misleading information may result in refusal, withdrawal or legal action to recover amounts granted.
