Lincoln council has delayed changes to its council tax support as the software to implement it isn’t ready. The scheme, which is received by around 5,600 working age people in the city, helps people on lower incomes to pay their council tax.
The authority had considered moving to a banded scheme, where residents’ help would depend on how much they earned. Some would have received more than now, while others would get less.
A council report described the change as “potentially more streamlined, efficient and easier to understand.” Despite political support for the change, the council’s software supplier has been unable to make the change in time for the 2025/26 financial year.
The move was supported by Lincolnshire County Council and Lincolnshire Police, who receive a share of the council tax which the authority collects. However, around two-thirds of the public said they would prefer no change during the consultation.
The executive committee decided on Monday (January 6) to postpone the change to the next year instead. City of Lincoln Council currently forgoes 14 per cent of its council tax revenue due to the scheme – average £1.3m – higher than the average of eight per cent for English councils.
Executive members praised the continued level of support during the meeting. Councillor Joshua Wells (Lab) said: “It’s fantastic that we offer one of highest rates, especially compared to our neighbours.
“It’s quite impressive in the climate we’re operating.” Leader Naomi Tweddle (Lab) said: “We will continue prioritising this and demonstrating our commitment to inequality.”
The change wouldn’t affect pensioners, whose council tax support is legally protected. The council will continue to operate an Exceptional Hardship Scheme for those in extreme financial difficulties.