Council reviews Tax Reduction Scheme to better support vulnerable residents
We are currently reviewing our Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme (LCTRS) for 2026, with the aim of providing stronger support to our most vulnerable working-age residents.
While no scheme can meet every individual need, we are proposing a series of improvements designed to make the system fairer and more responsive to those facing financial hardship:
- increase Band A support to cover 100% of the Council Tax charge, removing the current 10% contribution. (Note: This refers to the Band A award of Council Tax Reduction, not the Council Tax valuation band.)
- reduce the minimum payment threshold from £5.00 to £1.00
- fully disregard all Armed Forces pensions and compensation payments
- disregard the Limited Capability for Work elements of Universal Credit
- disregard Carer's Allowance and the Carer's element of Universal Credit
A public consultation is now live and will run until 12 October 2025. We welcome feedback from residents and stakeholders. To share your views, please visit: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ARUNCTRFINAL/
Councillor Martin Lury, Chair of the Policy and Finance Committee and Leader of Arun District Council, said:
"We know that many residents are struggling with the cost of living, and this review is about making sure our support reaches those who need it most. These proposed changes reflect our commitment to fairness and compassion, and I encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and help shape the future of this vital scheme.