The Rating & Valuation Department estimates that the one-off rate concession announced yesterday will save ratepayers some $2 billion, with 90% not needing to pay rates in the July-September quarter.

For the remaining 10%, they will enjoy the concessions in full of $1,250 and $5,000.

The rate concession is one of the relief measures to stem the economic hardship brought by the atypical pneumonia outbreak.

All ratepayers will be granted a one-off concession equivalent to either the actual rates payable for the third quarter or $1,250 for domestic properties and $5,000 in the case of non-domestic properties, whichever is the lesser amount.

However, the concessionary measure does not apply to payment of Government rent.

To provide ratepayers more relief, the Government will waive the 5% surcharge on overdue payments for the April to June quarter for three months.

Those who have not settled their bills by the end of April can have the payment due date automatically extended to the end of July without any surcharge.

Those who have already made the payment may apply for a refund, but will have to make the payment again on or before July 31.

Enquiries can be made to the Government's Integrated Call Centre on 2152 0111.