How will I get the Council Tax refund and do I need to apply for it?

MILLIONS of households will get a Council Tax refund this year to help struggling Brits cope with the rising cost of living.

The government said 80% of households will get the £150 rebate – we explain how to get it and whether you need to apply.

1

The chancellor announced the refund today as part of a package to support households struggling with the rising cost of living.

The government announced last year that local authorities could hike tax rates by up to 3% without a referendum.

Councils can up the rate even further by adding on an extra amount for social care services.

That means some households are facing a council tax bill increase of up to 5% – piling the pressure on already stretched budgets.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said today: “Right now, I know the number one issue on people’s minds is the rising cost of living.

“That’s why the government is stepping in with direct support that will help around 28million households with their rising energy costs over the next year.”

Who is eligible for the £150 council tax rebate?

Households in England in council tax bands A to D will receive a £150 repayment.

That amounts to around 80% of households, the government said.

Council tax bands are based on a property’s value – more expensive properties are charged a higher rate.

You can find out which band you’re in by using the government’s search tool – you just need to enter your postcode.

How can I get the council tax rebate?

Most people who pay their council tax by Direct Debit will have the amount refunded straight into their bank accounts.

Those people will receive the cash in April and don’t have to apply.

Households who don’t pay by Direct Debit will have to make a claim, and you can do this from April.

You should contact your local council to find out how to submit your claim.

Unlike the £200 energy bills payment, also announced today, the £150 council tax rebate will not have to be repaid.

What other help is available?

If you’re not eligible for the one-off refund, you should check whether you qualify for any other help.

Some households can get a discount, while others don’t have to pay any council tax at all.

For example, students and some pension credit claimants are completely exempt from having to pay.

Meanwhile, single people are entitled to 25% off their bill, while an adult living with a student can get 50% off.

If you are on a low income or receiving benefits, you could eligible for a reduction on your council tax.

The requirements to get help will vary depending on where you live, so the best first step is to check with your local council.

You can apply for a reduction through the Government website.

You’ll need to have your national insurance number, bank statements, a recent payslip or letter from the Jobcentre, and a passport or driving licence to hand.

If there are other adults in the household, you might need the same information for them too.

This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk