Changes to council tax benefit
HORLEY residents are invited to have their say on proposed changes to council tax benefits which could see working age claimants paying more towards their council tax.
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council is asking for residents views because of government plans to abolish council tax benefits which will see all councils setting up their own local scheme for people on low income called council tax support.
Funding for the new local scheme will be provided by the government, but it will only cover 90% of the current cost of council tax benefit. This means the council needs to decide how to find the remaining 10% - which in Reigate and Banstead is about £700,000.
Cllr Julian Ellacott, Executive Member for Housing and Welfare, said: “We recognise that these changes may be significant for some households, so we will review the scheme again in a year’s time and take into account the experience of the first year.
“Pensioners and vulnerable households, such as those who are disabled or provide care for others, will not be affected by the changes and will receive the same level of help towards their council tax as they do now.
“It is important to us to hear everyone’s views, even if you don’t receive help towards your council tax.”
Working age claimants could be asked to pay 10% more towards their council tax bill.
To have your say, fill in the online questionnaire at www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk or pick up a copy from your nearest Help Shop.
The consultation runs until October 23.
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Monday 20 May 2013
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