Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommmend Forward to Council

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: December 4, 2025

Purpose: An 8 week consultation has been carried out seeking views on changes to the Council Tax Reduction scheme for 2026/27.  This report seeks approval to make changes to the 2026/27 scheme. 

Content: RESOLVED –  That Full Council be recommended   To keep the maximum percentage of Council Tax Reduction for working-age claimants at 80% for 2026/27 be approved.   That Bands 2 to 5 are not increased by 10% and stay at the levels for the 2025/26 scheme, except for a percentage increase to the income bands in line with the DWP annual percentage uprating increase be approved.   That the minimum income floor is removed for self-employed claimants be approved.   That the period of back-dating for working-age claimants is increased from one month to a maximum period of twelve months be approved.   That the compensation schemes are disregarded for capital purposes be approved.   To increase the grid amounts in table 3 by the DWP percentage increase for welfare benefits be approved.     REASON FOR DECISION:  To continue with the new system that has provided a simplified inbuilt claiming process covering a wide range of income ranges.