Rochford District Council has today (4th October 2021) launched a consultation on proposed changes to its Council Tax Support scheme, which helps people on a low income with their council tax bills.

The Council is proposing to move to a ‘banded’ Council Tax Support scheme from 1 April 2022. This means eligible residents would receive a percentage reduction on their council tax bill based on a simple assessment of which income band their household falls under, rather than the detailed financial assessment which is required under the current scheme. The changes would only affect people of working age, as the rules for people of pension age are set nationally.

Under the proposed new scheme residents would be eligible for a reduction of either 25%, 50% or 75% on their council tax bill. This compares to the current scheme where the maximum reduction awarded is 72%.

The proposed changes aim to make the scheme simpler for residents to understand, and to apply for Council Tax Support online, and will also make it quicker for the council to process applications.

The Council’s Portfolio Holder for Financial Services, Cllr Simon Smith, said

“These proposals will mean that residents can apply for, and receive, any Council Tax Support which they are entitled to more quickly and easily. It will also mean that many households will receive more support that they are getting under the current scheme, which will assist those in greatest financial need across the district.”

Further information on the proposals and a link to the consultation can be found at www.rochford.gov.uk/CTSConsult.

The consultation will remain open until 14th November 2021.

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