Proposed Changes to the Local Council Tax Support (CTS) Scheme

Dacorum Borough Council is proposing changes to the rules for its Local Council Tax Support (CTS) scheme. The CTS scheme reduces the amount of Council Tax to be paid by residents with low income.

The proposed changes would increase the maximum help for all residents of working age to 100% of their Council Tax bill, by removing the 25% minimum payment, and the cap at band D. It would also extend the time limit for working age residents to apply for CTS to three months, in line with the time limit for residents of pension age.

Cllr Ron Tindall, Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Commercial Services, said: ‘We know that many people in our borough are struggling with the rising cost of living, and we want to do everything we can to help. These proposed changes to the Local Council Tax Support scheme would mean that more people on low incomes get help with their council tax bills.

‘The changes would also make it easier for working age residents to apply for CTS, by giving them the same amount of time as residents of pension age to make a claim.

‘I encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and have their say on the proposed changes.’

The consultation runs until 24 November 2023 (midnight).

Everyone with a connection to the borough is invited to find out more and respond online at Let’s Talk Dacorum or alternatively on the Consultation page: www.dacorum.gov.uk/consultation.

People without internet access can obtain paper copies of the survey together with supporting papers by calling 01442 228000 or by visiting The Forum in Hemel Hempstead.

Residents can find out whether they are eligible for Council Tax Support by visiting the Council’s web page www.dacorum.gov.uk/council-tax-support.