Threshold for indigents increases
THE CITY of Joburg’s expanded social package (ESP), which aims to assist indigent residents, has changed.
The monthly income threshold has been increased to R5 578.91, with effect from the beginning of the month.
The amount changes annually on November 1, in line with the consumer price index.
Residents who either have no income or earn an income of up to but not exceeding R5 578.91 qualify to register and benefit from a rates rebate.
ESP is a basket of benefits which the city offers to its most vulnerable citizens based on their level of poverty.
There are 321 984 residents who are registered as indigent.
If you meet the criteria and are not registered, the city asks that you sign up at one of your nearest ESP centres spread across the city’s regions. register for the ESP programme and benefit from rebates must meet the following criteria: Be a South African citizen. Reside within the City of Joburg’s boundaries (for this, a proof of residence is required, for example: a billing statement, a letter of confirmation from the councillor in your area or an affidavit from your nearest police station).
Your monthly income must not exceed R5 578.91 a month.
The benefits offered to qualifying citizens who are pensioners aged 60 and above and the critieria:
Rates rebates for properties valued under R2 million.
The account must be in the pensioner’s name.
Electricity and water rebates on both prepaid and conventional accounts (City Power, Johannesburg Water and Eskom).
Water rebates on conventional accounts:
The citizen does not have to be a homeowner to qualify for the metered service benefits.
Referral for social work interventions on programmes for the elderly and services offered by City of Joburg departments.
For working-age citizens and the unemployed (ages 18-59):
Rates rebates on properties valued at less than R450 000.
The citizen does not have to be a homeowner to qualify for this benefit.
Referral for social work interventions on programmes for the elderly and services offered by City of Joburg departments.
The amount changes annually in line with CPI