Credit Jude Mercer
The Government has launched a 12-week consultation on how to make council tax collection fairer in the UK.
One of the key proposals is to spread payments of council tax over 12 months instead of 10 as currently happens. In its present form, council tax is split into bands A-H with H being the most expensive. The change could reduce monthly payments by around £38 for the average Band D property.
The Government is also seeking feedback on changes to the penalties used for missed payments. Under the current system, bailiffs could be sent in within weeks of non-payment or householders could be forced to pay a whole year upfront after missed payments.
Local Government Minister Jim McMahon said the Government aims to end “unacceptable, aggressive collection practices” that harm both residents and councils. He emphasised the need for a “common-sense approach” that balances firmness against deliberate avoidance with fairness for those struggling.
Kelly Black, Local Authority worker in the north west, gave her thoughts on how the new change could help families. She said: “Changing the payments to 12 months will help families maintain a budget. Also taking unneeded stress away from struggling households.”
Listen to the full interview with Kelly Black here:
Featured image (c) Jude Mercer
