Support on offer to help those struggling to pay council tax

A RANGE of financial support is available for residents who are facing difficulty paying their council tax as a direct result of the coronavirus.

The support includes options for a council tax deferment or reduction scheme.

More than 6,000 letters have been sent by the local authority to residents in Bridgend county borough advising them of outstanding balances on their accounts.

Council tax funds almost 30% of the council’s budget with the remaining amount coming from Welsh Government.

Bridgend County Borough Council deputy leader Hywel Williams said: “We know the majority of residents haven’t needed any financial help with their council tax payments but some have needed additional support due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

“It has been a very challenging and uncertain time and where possible, we have sought to work with all those who have contacted us.

“However, council tax has not been suspended during the pandemic and it remains a legal requirement to make the necessary instalments where residents can do so.

“Letters have been sent to residents, reminding them of any outstanding payments that need to be made.

“For residents who continue to face difficulty as a result of the pandemic and are unable to make the payment in full due to a reduction in income, there is a range of financial support which can be offered.”

Residents can apply for a council tax reduction which helps people on low incomes to pay their council tax – you are eligible if you are claiming job seekers allowance or income support, or if your income is below a certain level.

You are also eligible if you are receiving universal credit.

Council tax can be paid in a variety of ways – online at www.bridgend.gov. uk via MyAccount at the top right of the webpage, by calling the 24-hour automated telephone payment line on 01656 642088, by debit/credit card over the telephone on 01656 643643, at a local post office or any retail outlet displaying the Payzone or Paypoint sign by presenting the barcode on the relevant council letter sent to residents.