Get help with your Council Tax
07/03/2007
More than 40 percent of pensioners are missing out on help with their Council Tax bills.
As a result up to £1.36 billion is going unclaimed by pensioners. What’s more, it’s thought that around half of those missing out are in the poorest fifth of the population.
Council Tax Benefit offers help to people on a low income towards paying their bill. Yet, many people, particularly pensioners who own their home, are unaware they are entitled to this help.
It’s thought that almost three million people across the UK could be failing to claim what is rightfully theirs.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is actively encouraging pensioners to find out if they are eligible for a rebate on their council tax bill.
Local councils will work out if someone qualifies for help, taking into account their individual circumstances. This will include their age, income and whether they live alone.
Benefits Minister James Plaskitt said: “We encourage people to tell their friends and family about Council tax benefit and urge them to contact their local authority to find out what they are entitled to.
“We are determined to raise awareness that many people could see their Council Tax bill reduced or even paid in full”
Council Tax Benefit is administered by Local Authorities and is paid in the form of a rebate, helping to pay towards or cover in full an individual’s Council Tax bill.
People on a low income who are liable for Council Tax should contact their Local Authority for a claim form. If they have received their Council Tax Bill they will find the number on there.
Pensioners applying for Pension Credit can have a shortened Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit claim form filled in for them by The Pension Service at the same time. All they need to do is phone 0800 99 1234.
For further help and information log on to the Department for Work and pensions website (linked below) or phone 0800 99 1234