News
January 2005
Cut your council tax - find out if you should be paying less
Council Tax Benefit can help people on a low income pay some or all of their Council Tax bill, even if they own their own home. But currently, many people who are entitled to Council Tax Benefit - including up to 1.7 million pensioners - don't claim it.
An advertising campaign promoting the message 'Cut your Council Tax – find out if you should be paying less' has started to stop pensioners missing out on an average £426 towards their council tax bills.
Some pensioners are missing out on a 100 per cent rebate. On top they may be due up to 12 months arrears, bringing a possible extra cash windfall.
Council Tax Benefit Minister Chris Pond says:
"My message to pensioners is - don't pay more than you need to. If you are entitled to Council Tax Benefit I want you to get every penny owed."
"If in doubt, there's no harm in checking - contact your local council to see if you are entitled."
"Claiming is easier than ever, we've made the claim form shorter and new rules mean once you've successfully applied for Council Tax Benefit you don't have to re-apply every year."
The Department for Work and Pensions continues to work closely with local authorities to raise awareness of Council Tax Benefit in their area and encourage take-up.