Changes are coming to the council tax reduction scheme
After a public consultation last year, we have made some changes to our local council tax reduction scheme for working age claimants. These changes are intended to help those most in need.
The changes which take effect from 1 April 2026 include:
- any armed forces pensions and compensation payments you receive will not be included in your assessment
- the maximum award has increased from 90% of your charge to 100% (so where people previously paid a small amount of their charge, those on the lowest income may no longer have to pay anything)
- the minimum award has reduced from £5.00 to £1.00, so now if you qualify for anything higher that £1.00 per week, you will receive an award
- if you receive any Carers Allowance or carers element of Universal Credit these will not be included in your assessment
- the Limited Capability for Work and work-related activity elements of Universal Credit will not affect your assessment
Chair of the Economy Committee, Councillor Roger Nash said: “These changes are influenced by listening to residents during our consultation and making sure our local scheme reflects the real pressures people are facing.
By increasing the maximum support available and protecting carers, those with limited capability for work, and members of the armed forces community, we are targeting help where it is most needed.”
If you have previously failed to qualify for assistance paying your council tax charge or considered claiming but believed you would not be eligible, this may have changed.
Please visit Council Tax Reduction | Arun District Council to read about the scheme. The online application form can be found on this page too. If you have any question, you can use our webchat facility on Arun District Council | Arun District Council.