Cynon Valley residents could get support with Council Tax

Local AM Vikki Howells urged residents to check if they are able to receive discounts or reductions in Council Tax fees.

As residents across Rhondda Cynon Taf receive their council tax bills, households could well be missing out on reductions. The Labour AM for Cynon Valley has joined the Welsh Government along with a host of charities to make people aware of the range of support available to help them pay their Council Tax bills.

You may be entitled to pay less council tax if any of the following apply to you:

• If you are on a low income
• If you live alone, or with people/children who do not pay council tax
• If you’re a student
• If you are disabled
• If you’re mentally impaired
• If your property is empty

The Welsh Labour Government is working with local authorities including Rhondda Cynon Taf and third sector organisations including Citizens Advice and Age Cymru. Online, a new eligibility checker is available plus a brand new awareness raising campaign will be launched. Households will also receive reminders through the post regarding support that is available to them.

Cynon Valley AM Vikki Howells said: “I am really concerned that thousands of households across the Cynon Valley may not be receiving the support they could be entitled to with their Council Tax. There are many discounts, reductions and exemptions available and these are all listed on the Welsh Government’s new website. A few minutes of your time could mean significant savings to your outgoings.”

Vikki also said that she “would encourage everyone to check the website to see whether they could be paying less council tax”.

You can find a full list of eligibility criteria that is available on the Welsh Government website at gov.wales/counciltaxhelp.