Earlier this month the government announced that all households in council tax bands A to D will receive a £150 ‘council tax rebate’ to help with rising energy costs. In response to this I have prepared answers to some FAQ’s. 

Is it really a council tax rebate? No, it's actually an 'energy rebate scheme'.

Not really. It has been confirmed that the payments to households will sit outside of the Council Tax system, but that local councils are being asked to administer them based on our local data and using our teams. This is testament to the ability of Local Government to distribute funding quickly and efficiently throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation has now been released and refers to the “Energy Rebate Scheme”.

Will the £150 just be deducted from my council tax bill? No, it will be paid to you separately.

When council tax bills are sent out in March they will not show a reduced amount for affected properties. However, we will ensure that bills reference the £150 rebate to avoid misunderstanding with residents. Residents should continue to pay their council tax as normal.

When will I receive my £150?  Hopefully late spring or early summer.

The Chancellor referred to ‘from April’ in the governments press release but as we are still awaiting information and guidance the exact timing remains uncertain. North Somerset Council will seek to make the payment as soon as they can. 

Will I receive the rebate automatically or will I have to apply? Likely to depend on whether or not you pay your council tax by direct debit.

The government is now urging households to set up direct debits with their local council to receive the rebate. People who pay their council tax by direct debit will see £150 go directly into their bank accounts. Click here for a link to North Somerset Councils webpage on how to register to pay your council tax by direct debit. 

With respect to those who don't pay by direct debit, or don't register to do so, the council will look to implement an appropriate alternative system that is efficient, easy to use, and has appropriate safeguards against fraudulent activity. 

What about people in E-H banded properties and those in need who don’t pay council tax?  Extra help is available

In addition to the £150 payment for bands A-D, there will be a discretionary fund available. The scope and guidance for the discretionary scheme is unconfirmed but it is expected that North Somerset Council will need to design elements of the scheme to target help where it is most needed and where relevant, for band E-H households.