With nearly £5 million of council tax energy rebates already paid, the council is encouraging all remaining eligible households to apply now to make sure they receive their rebate as well.
This one-off rebate, which does not need to be repaid, is part of a national scheme aimed at helping offset the rising costs of energy bills. It is available to households paying council tax and living in a home in council tax bands A to D. Those living in properties rated E who qualify for the disabled band reduction may also be eligible for this scheme.
Whilst the council was able to automatically rebate residents paying their council tax by direct debit, people paying by other means need to apply for the rebate to verify they are the council taxpayer and confirm their bank details for the payment to be made.
Helping to support people
“We know a lot of people are struggling or finding it harder to make ends meet.” said Cllr Imogen Shepherd-DuBey, executive member for finance. “Energy costs show no sign of reducing and this money is here to help. It doesn’t have to be repaid and doesn’t impact on receiving any support scheme or benefit on offer, so I’d encourage everyone eligible to claim.
“We sent out over 9,000 letters in May telling people who don’t pay by direct debit how to apply. Whilst we had a lot of interest, there are still a number of households we believe qualify but have yet to claim. If you think this could be you, or perhaps one of your family or friends, why not check and see if you could apply.”
How to check if you might be eligible and apply
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.
If you are in one of the eligible bands then the fastest way to apply is on the council website where you can find details of where to find the information you need and how to complete the application.
If you are unable to complete the online form, then please contact the council on 0118 974 6000 and someone will be able to help fill it in on your behalf.
For households that are in council tax bands E to H a new discretionary scheme will be launched soon to support people who are struggling. Details of this limited discretionary scheme, eligibility criteria and how to apply will be published shortly.
Other support available
Receiving the council tax energy rebate, or a payment from the council tax energy discretionary scheme, has no impact on other income related benefits you may receive such as housing benefit, universal credit, pension credits or employment support allowance.
The Council Tax energy rebate is separate to other national schemes, such as the £650 cost-of-living payment which will be paid directly to low-income households via the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
In addition to the energy rebate, a range of support is available to help those in need, such as the Household Support Fund and Council Tax Reduction schemes. You can find out more about these, and other support available, on our Local Support Hub page.
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