Public Consultations on Council Tax Changes Begin

Rutland County Council has initiated a consultation on proposed changes to its Council Tax Reduction Scheme, which aims to implement a banded income approach starting April 2025, while maintaining support for pensioners and care leavers. Meanwhile, concerns have been raised regarding potential cuts to the single person discount on council tax, which provides a 25% reduction for individuals living alone, as local councils are lobbying the government for financial relief amid rising costs. Somerset Council is also seeking public input on changes to its Council Tax Reduction Scheme for working-age adults, underscoring financial challenges and the need for public consultation before final decisions are made. In Hampshire, approximately 192,010 individuals benefited from the single person discount in 2023, with local leaders advocating for greater control over council tax funding. The government has yet to confirm any changes to the discount, which could significantly impact many taxpayers. As discussions unfold, these consultations and potential policy shifts reflect broader financial strains on local councils across the UK.