Issue - meetings

At its meeting on 28 November 2024, Cabinet considered the attached report of the head of finance on the adoption and implementation of a modified council tax reduction scheme for the financial years 2025/2026 onwards.

RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: to extend the period in which a new claim for council tax reduction can be backdated from six months to twelve months, where good cause has been demonstrated. 

Council considered the report of the head of finance on the proposed Council Tax Reduction (CTR) scheme for 2025/26. Cabinet had considered the report at its meeting on 28 November 2024 and recommended that Council adopt the scheme with an amendment to extend the period in which a new claim can be backdated from six months to 12 months.

The Cabinet member for finance and property assets introduced the scheme, which aimed to help residents who apply late for a reduction in council tax. While the number of cases affected would be small, Cabinet had agreed that it was a worthwhile change to support those in greatest need.

Council supported the proposed amendment which would have a positive impact for vulnerable residents whilst having a minor financial impact for the council.

RESOLVED: that for the 2025/26 financial year onwards the council continues to adopt the previous 2024/25 Council Tax Reduction (CTR) Scheme but with the following amendment:

a)    Extend the period in which a new claim for CTR can be backdated from six months to twelve months, where good cause has been demonstrated.

To consider the Head of Finance’s report.