Residents are being urged to check their eligibility for the £150 council tax energy rebate payment. The scheme for households in Council Tax bands A to D comes to an end on Friday 30 September and a new discretionary scheme has launched for households in bands E to H.
Any funds unclaimed by those from bands A to D on the 30 September will need to be returned to central government. No new requests from households within these bands can be accepted.
“Soaring energy prices are having an impact on everyone and this money is there to help you,” said Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, executive member for finance. “There’s no catch to receiving it as it doesn’t impact on other support schemes or benefits you might claim. Any money we don’t allocate by 30 September simply goes straight back to the Government.
“However we know in an area like this, where many residents bought their properties years before prices soared, that it’s not just people living in lower Council Tax bands who are struggling with energy price increases. That’s why we’ve launched a new discretionary scheme, aimed at those living in properties in council tax bands E to H to help them get the additional support they need.”
Those unsure on which band their property is in, can find this on their Council Tax bill, or go to the Gov.uk website to check.
Advice for those in council tax bands A to D
Households paying their council tax bill by direct debit should have received the rebate automatically in April or May with their bank statement showing a payment of £150 coming from ‘Wokingham BC’.
Those not paying by direct debit need to apply to the council so their details can be verified and a payment made.
Residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as rebates could take several days to process if not all information is provided. No payments can be made from the national scheme after the 30 September.
Advice for those in council tax bands E to H
In order to qualify for the Council Tax energy rebate discretionary scheme, residents must live in a property in council tax bands E to H and have met at least one of the following criteria on 1 April 2022:
- In receipt of Council Tax Support (CTS)
- One of the following exemptions is applicable – student or severely mentally impaired household, annexe occupied by elderly relative
- In receipt of Disabled Persons Relief
- If you or someone you live with is severely mentally impaired
- Registered foster carer
There will only be one payment per household. Second homes and empty properties are not eligible for the payment.
Further information about the Council Tax energy rebate discretionary scheme can be found on the council website.
Applying for either scheme
If you meet the eligibility criteria for either scheme, the fastest way to apply is on the council website where you can find more information and how to apply.
If you are unable to complete the online form, contact the council on 0118 974 6000 and someone will be able to help fill it in on your behalf.
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