Thousands of households set for Council Tax rebate

With Council Tax bills due start to landing on doormats this week, thousands of households are in line for a £150 rebate.

Last month, the Government announced plans to help with rising energy and living costs. This includes a one-off payment of £150 in the form of a Council Tax energy rebate for households whose main residence is in band A to D.

Payments for eligible households will be arranged between April and September. Most council tax payments are made via direct debit, and these residents will receive their rebate automatically.

Arrangements are being finalised for people who pay by other means, with an online application process being developed. Residents are kindly asked not to contact the council’s customer services about their £150 discount at this time.

Councillor Scott Durham, cabinet member for resources, said: “As householders grapple with rising energy prices, the Government’s decision to offer a council tax rebate to eligible households is to be welcomed with open arms.

“In Darlington, we have a Government grant of more than £6.8m to support residents with their energy bills.

“Our priority is now to arrange for the payments to be made to eligible householders without delay, and work is already underway to make that happen.

“However, with almost 45,000 rebate payments to sort out, including around 16,000 who do not use direct debit, this is a significant task.

“With that in mind, I would urge people to be patient. There is no need to contact the council directly at present. If you are eligible for this discount, we will make sure you get it.”

For more information about the council tax rebate scheme, including who is eligible, visit www.darlington.gov.uk/energyrebate