IRD blunder: 240,000 letters sent cancelling Working for Families payments
The Notice of Entitlement letter told recipients they would not receive any payments from April 1. An Inland Revenue spokeswoman confirmed to the Herald "around 240,000" letters were sent, and they were investigating how it came about. "Essentially, the letters shouldn't have gone and we're sorry for any distress caused," she said. On social media, Inland Revenue posted an explanation, saying no payments had been cancelled, and an apology for the confusion caused. "If you have received a notice implying that your Working for Families entitlements will cease as of 1 April 2020, please ignore it. "You can refer to your most recent Notice of Entitlement which includes the amount that you will continue to be paid. "Apologies for any confusion this may have caused." The post has drawn hundreds of comments, many upset at the stress caused and the timing with the Covid-19 lockdown. "What a stressful time to stuff up," commented one person. "I freaked out thinking we were going to be homeless because we now rely on this money now because of this Covid-19 and how it has affected hubbies work. "I just hope you send another letter to everyone because not everyone will have Facebook and see this."
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Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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27.8% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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21% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.9% Keep it as is
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31.5% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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11.3% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
Winner winner!
Congratulations to the winners of our $100 Mitre10 vouchers:
Justine Terrill from Mount Albert
Suzette Gibson from Nelson
Soumya Manoj from Lower Hutt
Millie George from Richmond Hill
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