Consultation on Proposed Changes to the Council Tax Support Scheme for Reading 2020/21

Overview

Reading’s local Council Tax Support (CTS) Scheme began on 1 April 2013, when the Government abolished the national Council Tax Benefit Scheme.

Our Council Tax Support Scheme helps “working age” people who have a low income, or no income, pay their Council Tax.

Pensioners are protected under separate legislation, and are not affected by our Council Tax Scheme, or the proposed changes that are the subject of this.

Why your views matter

We are considering changes to our Council Tax Support Scheme for 2020/21 following feedback on the current scheme and a review of our administration process.

If we want to make changes to the Council Tax Support scheme we need to ask you about it first. We want to hear the views of everyone, this will ensure that you have had your say and have helped us shape any potential changes to our Scheme should we need to make them early in April 2020.

We need to hear from you to ensure that we make the best possible use of the money we have available whilst still providing this valuable support to the most vulnerable.

We have not made any final decisions about the proposed changes to our Council Tax Support Scheme. Your views and ideas will help us make these decisions.

Who should take part in this consultation?

This consultation is open to everyone who lives, works or studies in Reading and wants to take part. This includes customers, residents, local businesses, local charities, landlords and voluntary, community and third sector organisations.

What will happen next?

After the closing date we will consider all of the feedback we receive when finalising our Council Tax Support Scheme for 2020/21.

We can implement more than one option or vary the scheme depending on the feedback we receive.

The Council will make a final decision on the Council Tax Scheme before 31st January 2020. A copy of the new scheme will be published on the website.