The Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead is consulting until Friday 2nd December on its Council Tax Reduction scheme for working-age applicants in 2023/24.

Council Tax Reduction is a means-tested benefit that helps people on low incomes by reducing the amount of Council Tax they pay. Councils must decide each year on whether to make any changes to the scheme.

In the Royal Borough, it is proposed that the scheme essentially remains the same, maintaining the maximum level of discount for working-age recipients at 80 per cent of their Council Tax bills. 

The council is consulting on five proposed changes, focussed on simplifying administration of the scheme and aligning with national changes to Housing Benefit. Three changes affect working-age applicants in receipt of both Council Tax Reduction and Universal Credit. The remaining two affect all working-age applicants.

For full details and to take part, please visit www.rbwm.gov.uk/consultations or use the public-access computers available at all local libraries, where staff are happy to help if needed. A hard copy of the consultation may be obtained by emailing council.tax@rbwm.gov.uk or by calling 01628 683850.

Councillor David Hilton, Cabinet member for Asset Management & Commercialisation, Finance, & Ascot, said: “Most of our Council Tax Reduction scheme is proposed to remain the same, including maintaining the same level of maximum support, which we know will be welcomed in these challenging times.

“The majority of the scheme changes are proposed to simplify the administration of the current scheme for customers and staff, as well as align the treatment of customers where there is currently a disparity with national rules. We welcome people’s thoughts to help inform the final decision.

“While we have one of the lowest Council Tax rates in England, and the lowest in Berkshire, which certainly helps to keep down household bills, we’re very alive to the fact that the cost of living is rising for everyone.

“If you’re struggling to pay your Council Tax, please get in touch with the council as soon as possible, before you enter arrears, to discuss what support may be available, such as flexible payment plans or your eligibility for Council Tax discounts or exemptions.”