Local Council Tax Support Scheme – 2024/2025 Consultation Questionnaire

Background to the consultation

What is this consultation about?

Each year the Council has to decide whether to make any amendments to the Council Tax Support scheme for working age applicants in its area. This year the Council is considering making changes to simplify the scheme for residents in the City

 What is Council Tax Support?

Council Tax Support is a discount for Council Tax. The level of discount is based on the income of the household. Currently the maximum discount is 75% of the Council Tax charge for working age households and up to 100% for pensioners.

 Why is a change to the Council Tax Support scheme being considered?

Until 31 March 2013 there was a national scheme called Council Tax Benefit. The Government made local Councils responsible for replacement schemes from 1 April 2013. A review is needed to ensure the scheme continues to contribute towards delivering the Council’s budget whilst also ensuring that it remains fair to residents and continues to support vulnerable households. Having a simplified scheme would be easier to administer and easier for residents to understand.

 Who will this affect?

Working age households that claim Council Tax Support from Southend-on-Sea Cirty Council.

 Pension age households will not be affected as Central Government prescribe the scheme and have protected pensioners at 100%.

Timeline

This consultation is open from the 31th July 2023 to 23rd October 2023

For further information, or alternative ways to give your views, please contact Lorraine or Tracey by phone - 01702 215841 - or email BenefitsManagement@southend.gov.uk

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