As the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets across the UK, a crucial financial lifeline remains available for millions. The £150 council tax rebate, introduced to help offset soaring energy bills, is still being claimed by eligible residents—but many are still unaware or unsure how to access it.
Here’s everything you need to know to secure your payment and ease the pressure on your finances.
Who Exactly is Eligible for the Rebate?
The scheme is designed to target support at households in the most common property bands. You are likely eligible if your home was in Council Tax bands A to D on April 1, 2022. This includes roughly 80% of all homes in England. If you live in Scotland or Wales, similar support schemes are in place, so it's worth checking with your local authority.
A key point many miss: eligibility is based on the property, not the people. If you are the person responsible for paying the council tax, you receive the rebate. This applies even if you receive Council Tax Support or a single-person discount.
How Do You Get the £150 Paid?
The process is designed to be automatic for the majority of people. If you pay your council tax by direct debit, your local council likely already has your bank details. In this case, the £150 should be paid directly into your account without you needing to lift a finger. Keep an eye on your bank statement for a deposit from your local council.
What If You Don't Pay by Direct Debit?
Don't worry, you haven't missed out. Councils are required to reach out to eligible households that don't pay by direct debit. You should receive a letter or an application form inviting you to claim your rebate securely. It is vital that you respond to this to get your payment, as it will not be sent automatically.
Be extremely cautious of scams. Your council will never ask you for your bank details via a text message or a cold call. Always initiate contact through your council's official website or phone number.
What If the Money Hasn't Arrived?
Payments are being made in batches, so some households may experience delays. Your first port of call should be your local council's website. Most have set up dedicated online portals where you can check the status of your rebate and find application forms if needed.
If your application is rejected or you believe you were eligible but missed the deadline, contact your council directly. They may have a discretionary fund to assist those who fell through the cracks.
Important Considerations to Keep in Mind
This rebate is a one-off grant, not a loan. This means you will not have to pay this £150 back. It is entirely separate from the £200 energy bill discount that will be applied from October, which is effectively a loan that will be repaid over future years.
If you are unsure about your council tax band, you can check it instantly on the GOV.UK website. Be aware that challenging your band can sometimes result in it being moved up as well as down, so proceed with caution.
For those in higher band properties (E-H) or who are not eligible, many councils also have a separate discretionary fund for vulnerable households. It is always worth enquiring if you are struggling with your bills.
Act now to ensure you claim what you are entitled to. This support is a vital tool for managing the ongoing increases in the cost of living.
