A new program introduced by North Lincolnshire Council will exempt working-age households with terminally ill individuals from paying council tax. Families facing the loss of a loved one will have their council tax liability waived for a year under this initiative.
The scheme, set to run for an initial two-year period, aims to provide relief to families in distress. Detailed information on eligibility criteria and application procedures can be found on the council’s official website.
Similar schemes are already in place in other councils such as Barnet, Cheshire West, and Milton Keynes, following advocacy by the national charity Marie Curie on this issue.
While most councils in England are planning to raise council tax by 5%, some have been granted permission for higher increases.
The average annual council tax bill for a band D property currently stands at £2,392.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, emphasized the importance of easing financial burdens for families dealing with the imminent loss of a loved one. He stated that the council’s intervention aims to provide support during challenging times, allowing families to prioritize their well-being without additional financial stress.
Cllr Richard Hannigan, cabinet member for independent families (adults), highlighted the significant impact of the council tax exemption on individuals facing terminal illnesses. He stressed the importance of alleviating financial concerns to enable families to concentrate on care and spend quality time together during such sensitive periods.
Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for transformation and sustainability, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to providing targeted and compassionate support to residents in exceptional circumstances. The initiative aims to offer practical assistance to those in need, ensuring a respectful and considerate approach.
For individuals questioning their council tax band, there may be opportunities to challenge it and potentially receive refunds from the council. It is essential to research thoroughly before making any adjustments, as moving to a lower band can lead to increased bills, impacting both personal finances and neighboring properties.
Various circumstances, such as living alone or being on a low income, may make individuals eligible for council tax discounts or support schemes. Depending on the location, discounts can range up to 100% of the council tax bill.
At Reach and across our entities , we and our partners utilize information collected via cookies and other identifiers to enhance site experience, analyze usage patterns, and deliver personalized advertising. You have the option to opt out of data sale or sharing at any time by clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” button on the webpage. Please note that preferences are browser-specific. Using our website and services signifies acceptance of cookies and agreement to the practices detailed in our Privacy Notice
