Wirral residents who are struggling to pay their Council Tax bills due to the effects of the coronavirus will benefit from a package of measures recently announced

As well as more flexible payment options, help from the Government’s Hardship Fund will mean that many Wirral households who are already struggling financially will receive a further reduction in their Council Tax of up to £150. 

This reduction will apply to people already receiving Local Council Tax Support.

Recognising the impact the Covid-19 (coronavirus) outbreak is having, especially on those who have experienced a sudden drop in income, the new advice sets out a range of options: 

• People on a reduced income are reminded that they can apply for Council Tax Support, to get help to meet the costs. To find out if you are eligible and how to apply, visit www.wirral.gov.uk/benefits-and-money/housing-benefit/make-claim-housing-benefit-or-council-tax-support

• Rather than paying Council Tax in 10 monthly instalments (from April to January), all residents can opt to pay it in 12 monthly instalments, helping to spread the financial load 

• Working-age residents who receive Local Council Tax Support will be given a further reduction in their annual council tax bill of up to £150. 

There is no need to apply for this as it will be automatically applied to new bills for eligible residents.

Wirral Council’s Director of Resources, Shaer Halewood, said: “This is a very difficult time for many people in the Borough. 

“If your financial circumstances have changed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak and you are concerned about paying your Council Tax bill, visit our website to find out how we can help.”

The Council has set up a dedicated page on its website for people struggling with council tax during the pandemic: www.wirral.gov.uk/council-tax/support-if-you-are-struggling-pay-council-tax-due-covid-19

Anyone still worried about their Council Tax bill should contact the team on counciltax@wirral.gov.uk or 0151 606 2002