Council Tax Support scheme

From 1 April 2025 the Council Tax Support scheme has changed to a new income banded scheme for working age claimants. 

All pension age claims are not affected, the change is for working age claimants only. 

Claimants of a state pensionable age receive support in accordance with the Council Tax Reduction Scheme (Prescribed Requirements) (England) Regulations 2012

Who is it for?

The Council Tax Support Scheme provides financial assistance to Council Tax Charge payers on a low income whether they rent or own their home, or live rent-free, by reducing the amount of Council Tax they have to pay.  
 

How is it worked out?

The Council will look at the money you and your partner have coming in as well as your savings. The council will also look at your other circumstances such as your age. With this information the council will work out if you qualify for Council Tax Support. If you can get Council Tax Support, this will not affect the amount of money you receive in other benefits. The main aspects of the Council Tax Support Scheme 2025/2026 for working age claimants are: 

• A maximum reduction of 75% of a Band A Council Tax charge
• A maximum of 2 children will be factored in when we calculate your entitlement 
• If you have more than £6000 in savings and/or capital, you will not qualify 
• You only need to inform the Benefit Service of a change in your income if it increases or decreases by more than £50 per week
• If you have given Universal Credit permission to share your information with the Council, you do not need to submit a new claim or supply proof of your award every month  

Click here for your Frequently Asked Questions

 What to do Next

To see what your entitlement could be under the Council Tax Support scheme please use the on-line calculator

What if I disagree with the decision?

If you are unhappy with a decision we have made with regard to your Council Tax Support, you can ask us to explain our decision. Write to us with the reasons why you are unhappy with the decision, and we will look at the decision again.

If, after we have looked at the decision again, you are still not satisfied with our decision you can appeal. You can also appeal if you have not heard back from us within two months. If you decide to appeal, you will need to send your appeal to the Valuation Tribunal Service which will arrange for your appeal to be heard by an independent tribunal.

If you have problems accessing the application form please phone 0161 342 3708 for assistance.

Click the link for more information about our Customer Service Centres